UK Academic Nitasha Kaul Deported Over Kashmir Comments

The deportation of UK academic Nitasha Kaul from Bengaluru airport has sparked controversy, highlighting tensions surrounding discussions on Kashmir. Kaul, an 'Overseas Citizen of India' cardholder, faced refusal upon arrival due to a preventive lookout circular, citing her consistent "pro-separatist comments" and "anti-India" stance on KashmirKaul's exclusion from the 'Constitution and National Unity Convention-2024', despite being invited by the Siddaramaiah government in Karnataka, has ignited debates regarding academic freedom and the right to freedom of expression.

Immigration officers reportedly attributed the refusal to "orders from Delhi," indicating government involvement in the decision. Confirming the lookout circular's purpose to prevent her from expressing her views on Indian soil, government sources hinted at a possible blacklist.

Kaul's criticism of India's actions in Kashmir, including her testimony to the US House of Representatives, drew scrutiny from Indian security agencies. She faced allegations of justifying terrorism in Kashmir and denying any genocide of Kashmiri Pandits, a community she belongs to. Furthermore, intelligence agencies noted Pakistan's ISI amplifying her statements as part of its "anti-India propaganda" on the Kashmir issue. The incident underscores the complex dynamics surrounding Kashmir discourse and raises concerns about academic freedom and government censorship.