Kashmiri-Origin UK Academic Professor Dr Nitasha Kaul Faces OCI Revocation Over Alleged Anti-India Remarks

In a move that has sparked national and international debate, India has revoked the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status of Professor Dr Nitasha Kaul, a UK-based academic of Kashmiri origin, over allegations of anti-India activities.

The controversy began in February 2024 when Kaul was denied entry into India and deported from Bengaluru airport. Despite holding a valid OCI card and being officially invited by the Karnataka state government to speak at the “Constitution and National Unity Convention-2024,” she was stopped by immigration officials upon arrival. According to Kaul, she was informed that her entry was barred due to “orders from Delhi.”

Kaul, who teaches at the University of Westminster in London, is known for her outspoken views on the Indian government’s policies in Jammu and Kashmir. She has previously testified before the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee about human rights concerns in the region.

Following her deportation, Kaul said she was held in a detention cell for nearly 24 hours under constant CCTV surveillance. She reported limited access to food, water, and basic communication, calling the experience “deeply distressing.”

Weeks after the incident, Kaul received a formal notice from the Indian government stating that her OCI card was being revoked. The notice accused her of “regularly targeting India and its leadership, particularly on the Kashmir issue,” through her writings, speeches, and global appearances. Authorities alleged that some of her public statements were used by Pakistan’s intelligence agency, ISI, as part of anti-India propaganda efforts.

The decision triggered strong reactions across the political spectrum. The Indian National Congress criticised the central government’s actions as a violation of democratic principles and freedom of expression. “Silencing academic voices critical of the government sets a dangerous precedent,” said a senior Congress spokesperson.

However, leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) defended the decision, labelling Kaul a “Pakistani sympathizer.” BJP leaders claimed that allowing individuals with what they called “a clear anti-India agenda” to enter the country would pose a national security risk.