Celebrities Slam West Bengal Cops Over Arrest of Social Media Influencer
Outcry Over Sharmishta Panoli’s Arrest
A controversy erupted over the arrest of 22-year-old social media influencer Sharmishta Panoli by West Bengal police for a video post on Operation Sindoor, with celebrities Kangana Ranaut and Pawan Kalyan criticizing the state’s law enforcement.
Kangana Ranaut’s Reaction
BJP MP Kangana Ranaut expressed her concerns, urging the TMC government in Bengal not to turn the state into “North Korea,” implying a restrictive and oppressive environment. She argued that harassing someone in the name of law and order is not good, especially when the individual has apologized and deleted the controversial post.
Pawan Kalyan’s Statement
Andhra Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan also weighed in on the issue, questioning the selective outrage surrounding Sharmishta’s arrest. He emphasized that secularism should be a two-way street and not a shield for some and a sword for others. Kalyan pointed out the alleged double standard, highlighting that elected members and MPs of TMC have mocked Sanatan Dharma without facing swift consequences.
Background and Implications
Sharmishta Panoli was arrested from Gurgaon on May 30 based on an FIR filed in Kolkata’s Garden Reach police station, accusing her of hurting religious sentiments. She has been remanded in judicial custody in Kolkata until June 13. The Maharashtra university where she studies law has suspended her and barred her from placements.
Public Debate
The case has sparked a public debate on whether public figures should face legal consequences for controversial opinions expressed online. Some argue that freedom of expression should be protected, while others believe that individuals should be held accountable for their statements.
Future Developments
The controversy surrounding Sharmishta Panoli’s arrest is likely to continue, with many watching to see how the case unfolds and whether it sets a precedent for future cases involving social media influencers and freedom of expression.
