Hyderabad – Political tensions flared in Telangana after Satavahana University professor Surepalli Sujatha made a controversial social media post regarding Operation Sindoor, India's military offensive launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, including a Nepali national.

The post, perceived by critics as seditious, prompted widespread backlash from BJP leaders and a protest led by the BJP Mahila Morcha, demanding the professor’s suspension.

What the Professor Said

On May 7, shortly after the Indian Army confirmed the success of Operation Sindoor, Professor Sujatha took to Facebook, questioning the symbolic use of the word "Sindoor".

“Does Sindoor mean blood? I thought it represented devotion, worship or religion. War will only bring destruction, not peace,” she wrote in her now-deleted post.

Although she did not directly criticize the military, her remarks were interpreted by political leaders as disrespectful to India’s armed forces.

BJP Leaders Demand Action

The post sparked sharp criticism from BJP MLA Payal Shankar, who described the remarks as “reprehensible and bordering on treason.” Shankar urged the Telangana government to suspend Sujatha from her role on the Telangana Education Commission Advisory Committee.

On May 9, BJP Mahila Morcha members, led by Jayashree, staged a demonstration outside Satavahana University’s main gate. Protesters burned an effigy of the professor and submitted a memorandum to the university’s vice-chancellor, demanding immediate disciplinary action.

“We will meet the Governor and demand that a case of treason be registered against her,” Jayashree told the media.

Professor Sujatha Issues Apology

In the face of growing political and public backlash, Professor Sujatha issued an apology via Facebook on Wednesday evening.

“It seems my earlier post hurt many, especially my brothers and sisters in the BJP and other parties. My intention was to express solidarity with the women who lost their husbands in Pahalgam—not to insult the Indian Army or government,” she wrote.

Sujatha clarified that her remarks were based on her personal reflections and research on post-war consequences, not meant to question national security efforts.

“If my words have hurt anyone, I sincerely apologize,” she added.

University Yet to Respond

As of now, Satavahana University has not issued an official statement regarding any action against Sujatha. The controversy adds to the growing political heat surrounding Operation Sindoor, which has evoked strong nationalistic sentiment across India.