Pune/Kolkata – June 1, 2025
In a case that has stirred a nationwide debate on freedom of speech and religious sensitivity, 22-year-old law student and influencer Sharmishta Panoli found herself behind bars after a video she posted on Instagram triggered outrage and multiple police complaints.
So, Who Is Sharmishta Panoli?
Sharmishta Panoli isn’t just another social media face. She’s a law student based in Pune and has built a considerable following on Instagram thanks to her bold, often controversial takes on politics, religion, and current affairs. Her style? Unapologetic, sharp, and unfiltered.
But this time, it appears that her words may have crossed a line—or at least that’s how the authorities see it.
The Controversial Video That Sparked It All
On May 14, Panoli posted a video in which she criticized Bollywood celebrities for their silence over Operation Sindoor—India’s military retaliation following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam. In the same breath, she made remarks that were considered derogatory towards a specific religious community and even the Prophet Muhammad.
Here’s an excerpt from what she said:
“Earlier, I used to think Nabi was delusional as he thought 72 hoors would be waiting for them in heaven, but this woman is even more delusional, she thinks India opened fire without any reason… We are not the devotees of Mahatma Gandhi anymore.”
The comment was widely shared, and soon after, FIRs were filed in West Bengal and other states under sections related to promoting enmity between religious groups and hurting religious sentiments.
Arrest and Aftermath
Though Panoli quickly took the video down and issued an unconditional public apology, the damage had been done. Kolkata Police took over the investigation and, after reportedly issuing several summons that went unanswered, tracked her down to Gurugram, Haryana, and arrested her on May 31.
She was brought to Kolkata and presented in court, where she was remanded to 14 days in judicial custody.
Social Media Storm: #ReleaseSharmistha Trends
The arrest has divided public opinion. Many on social media felt the move was too harsh and questioned the inconsistency in how such cases are handled. Soon, hashtags like #ReleaseSharmistha began trending, with several public figures jumping into the fray.
Actor and now BJP MP Kangana Ranaut came out in her support, writing on Instagram:
“We live in a democracy and there is no need to bully or harass someone just because you disagree.”
International voices also joined in. Dutch MP Geert Wilders, known for his vocal criticism of Islamic extremism, tweeted that her arrest was a “disgrace for freedom of speech.”
What’s Next?
The case has become more than just about one video. It’s now a flashpoint in larger conversations about:
- Free speech vs. hate speech
- The legal system’s response to online commentary
- Religious tolerance and digital accountability
As of now, Sharmishta remains in judicial custody, awaiting further legal proceedings. But one thing is certain: this case has amplified the ongoing tension between political expression, religious sensitivity, and the boundaries of the law in India’s digital age.
Stay tuned to Bharat Global Time
