Pune’s Sinhagad Engineering College Rusticates 19-Year-Old Muslim Student Over ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ Instagram Post

Pune’s Sinhagad Engineering College has rusticated a Muslim student for allegedly sharing objectionable pro-Pakistan content on Instagram, stating that the decision was made “to preserve the institutional ethos and ensure that all students adhere to responsible civic and academic conduct.”

Identified as Khadija Sheikh (19), the student allegedly shared an Instagram story containing screenshots of tweets by Pakistani nationals, including posts referencing “Pakistan Zindabad” and “Hindutva extremism.”

In a letter addressed to Sheikh, the college wrote, “This is to inform you that a disciplinary action of rustication is taken following your public posts on Instagram, in which you have expressed views opposing the Indian government’s decision of ‘Operation Sindoor’ for revenging the Pahalgam attack and hailing Pakistan, against whom we are at war currently, citing your anti-national sentiments.”

“While this institution recognises the right of free expression, it also expects students to exercise such rights responsibly and within the bounds of the law. Your posts, which were made from a publicly identifiable account linked to you, have been deemed to undermine the college’s reputation and may incite disharmony within the campus community and society.”

Meanwhile, Kondhwa Police have arrested the 19-year-old student. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 5) Rajkumar Shinde stated, “She has been booked under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections 152 (acts endangering sovereignty, unity and integrity of India), 196 (promoting enmity between different groups), 299 (outraging religious feelings), and 352 (intentional insult intended to provoke a breach of peace). Further investigation is underway.”