Sharmishta Panoli Arrested: What Happened and Why It’s Making Headlines
Sharmishta Panoli Arrested: What Happened and Why It’s Making Headlines
The internet is abuzz with the news of Sharmishta Panoli’s arrest over her controversial video about Operation Sindoor. But what exactly happened, and why has it stirred such intense debate?
Who is Sharmishta Panoli?
Sharmishta Panoli is a 22-year-old law student at Symbiosis Law School, Pune, who has also built a following as a social media influencer on Instagram. Known for her bold opinions, she often shares views on social and cultural topics.
The Controversial Video
Recently, Sharmishta posted a video criticizing Bollywood celebrities for their silence on Operation Sindoor, a military operation conducted by India. In the video, she expressed her frustration, calling out celebrities for prioritizing movie promotions over national issues.
The video quickly went viral, gaining both support and criticism. Many accused Sharmishta of using divisive language that could stoke communal tensions.
Arrest and Legal Trouble
Following the backlash, Sharmishta deleted the video and apologized online. However, she and her family were reportedly untraceable afterward, leading to a court-issued arrest warrant.
On May 29, 2025, she was arrested by Kolkata Police in Gurugram, Haryana. She now faces charges under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including:
✅ Promoting enmity between different communities
✅ Deliberate and malicious acts to outrage religious feelings
✅ Intentional insult to provoke public disorder
Reactions and Political Debate
The arrest has sparked a political storm. BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari criticized the move, accusing the West Bengal government of appeasement politics. Meanwhile, actress and politician Kangana Ranaut defended Sharmishta, saying that while her remarks were unpleasant, they did not justify legal harassment.
Current Status
Sharmishta has been sent to 14-day judicial custody. Her Instagram profile has since been made private, and all earlier posts have been deleted.
Final Thoughts
The arrest of Sharmishta Panoli has highlighted the challenges of free expression in the digital age. As the debate continues, it’s a reminder of the fine line between voicing opinions and inciting public unrest.
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