CHENNAI, TAMIL NADU — December 2025:
SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRM University) has terminated Assistant Professor Laura Santhakumari following an internal disciplinary inquiry into her controversial social media post criticizing India’s military operation known as “Operation Sindoor.”
The professor, who taught at the university’s Kattankulathur campus, was initially suspended in May 2025 after her message—circulated through WhatsApp—triggered widespread criticism and accusations that she was endorsing anti-India narratives.
The Controversial Post
According to media reports and inquiry findings, the message:
- Criticized “Operation Sindoor,” alleging that the operation caused civilian suffering in Pakistan.
- Claimed that innocent lives were lost, remarks that critics argued aligned with hostile foreign propaganda.
- Became widely shared online, sparking allegations of pro-Pakistan messaging.
University officials noted that the post “undermined institutional values” and risked provoking public misunderstanding about national security matters.
Inquiry and Dismissal
The internal committee determined that the post constituted a “serious act of misconduct.”
Based on its findings, the university:
- Confirmed the initial suspension
- Initiated disciplinary proceedings
- Concluded with termination of employment
The university reaffirmed its stance that actions perceived as harming national interest or damaging institutional reputation “cannot be tolerated.”
Wider Reaction and Political Fallout
The issue triggered intense responses across social media and political platforms.
Observers argued that the professor’s statement had inadvertently provided leverage to anti-India groups, including pro-Pakistan networks attempting to discredit India’s security initiatives.
The incident reignited ongoing debates in India over academic freedom, national security, and the responsibilities of educators in digital spaces.
Monitoring of ‘Anti-National’ Posts
Cybersecurity analysts and media sources report that central agencies—particularly the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA)—routinely monitor social media accounts suspected of spreading content potentially harmful to national security or amplifying foreign disinformation.
Officials have stated that many users sharing such posts do not fully grasp the legal consequences, which may include:
- Violations of the Information Technology Act,
- Possible investigation under provisions related to unlawful or anti-national activities,
- The risk of unintentionally contributing to propaganda efforts of hostile entities.
Authorities urge the public to exercise caution when commenting on sensitive national security operations.
Intelligence Inputs From South India
According to internal assessments submitted to the Union Home Ministry, central intelligence agencies reported a surge in online campaigns opposing Operation Sindoor originating from social media accounts in Kerala and other South Indian states.
Reports indicate that:
- Several profiles belonging to state and central government employees were found sharing or forwarding posts critical of the operation.
- A consolidated list of individuals and social media groups allegedly involved in circulating such content has been submitted to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for further verification and monitoring.
Officials emphasized that investigations are ongoing to determine whether the activity stemmed from misinformation, coordinated influence attempts, or individual political expression.
