Shoma Sen

Shoma Sen (born 1948) is an Indian academic, activist, and writer. She is known for her work in women's studies, literature, and for her advocacy for marginalized communities. Sen was a professor and head of the English department at Nagpur University.

Sen's academic work focuses on gender, caste, and class issues, particularly in relation to Indian literature and society. She has written extensively on the experiences of women in India and has been involved in various social movements advocating for their rights.

In June 2018, Sen was arrested and charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in connection with the 2018 Bhima Koregaon violence. The charges against her allege involvement with Maoist organizations, accusations she denies. Her arrest and subsequent imprisonment have drawn widespread criticism from human rights organizations and academics who argue that she is being targeted for her activism and dissenting views. She has remained in jail since her arrest, awaiting trial, and her health has reportedly deteriorated. Her case has become a focal point in discussions about the use of UAPA against human rights defenders and activists in India.