Sharmistha Panoli’s Arrest Sparks National Debate on Free Speech and Religious Sensitivities

KKN Gurugram Desk | The arrest of 22-year-old law student and social media influencer Sharmistha Panoli has ignited a nationwide discourse on the boundaries of free speech, religious sentiments, and the role of law enforcement in digital expression.

Who is Sharmistha Panoli?

Sharmistha Panoli is a law student based in Pune, Maharashtra, and an Instagram influencer known for her outspoken views on socio-political issues. With a substantial following, she has been recognized for her candid commentary on current events.

The Controversial Video and Subsequent Apology

On May 14, 2025, Panoli posted a video on Instagram criticizing Bollywood celebrities for their silence on “Operation Sindoor,” India’s military response to the Pahalgam terror attack. In the video, she allegedly made derogatory remarks about a religious community and the Prophet Muhammad, leading to widespread backlash. Facing intense criticism and threats, Panoli deleted the video and issued an unconditional apology on social media, stating that her intent was not to hurt anyone’s sentiments.

Legal Actions and Arrest

Despite her apology, multiple FIRs were filed against Panoli under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including promoting enmity between different groups and deliberate acts to outrage religious feelings. Kolkata Police made several attempts to serve legal notices, but upon failing to locate her, an arrest warrant was issued. On May 31, 2025, Panoli was arrested from Gurugram, Haryana, and subsequently remanded to 14 days of judicial custody by the Alipore Court in Kolkata.

Public and Political Reactions

The arrest has sparked a significant public outcry, with the hashtag #ReleaseSharmistha trending across social media platforms.

• Kangana Ranaut, actress and Member of Parliament, expressed her support for Panoli, stating that while the influencer used “unpleasant words,” such language is common among youth today. Ranaut emphasized that Panoli’s apology should suffice and called for her immediate release.

• Pawan Kalyan, actor and Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, criticized the arrest, highlighting a perceived double standard in handling cases related to religious sentiments. He questioned the lack of action against those who mock Sanatana Dharma and stressed that secularism should be a two-way street.

• Geert Wilders, Dutch Member of Parliament, condemned the arrest as a “disgrace for freedom of speech” and urged Indian authorities to release Panoli.

Broader Implications

Panoli’s arrest underscores the ongoing tension between freedom of expression and the protection of religious sentiments in India. It raises questions about the consistency of law enforcement and the potential for political influence in such cases. The incident also highlights the challenges faced by social media influencers and content creators in navigating sensitive topics.

As the legal proceedings continue, Panoli’s case remains a focal point in discussions about digital expression, religious tolerance, and legal accountability. The outcome may set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, balancing the rights to free speech with the need to maintain communal harmony.

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