Daijiworld Media Network – Kolkata

Kolkata, Jun 1: The arrest of 22-year-old law student and influencer Sharmishta Panoli by Kolkata Police over a communal social media video has drawn international attention, with Dutch MP Geert Wilders calling it a "disgrace for freedom of speech."

In a post on X, Wilders urged PM Narendra Modi to intervene, saying, “Free the brave Sharmishta Panoli! Don’t punish her for speaking the truth about Pakistan and Muhammad.”

Sharmishta was arrested after a video in which she used abusive language and targeted Bollywood actors for their silence on Operation Sindoor, India’s strike following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26. She later deleted the post and issued an apology.

The FIR includes charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for promoting religious enmity and provoking breach of peace. She has been remanded to 14 days’ judicial custody.

Jana Sena leader Pawan Kalyan questioned the selective outrage, asking why no action was taken against TMC leaders who mocked Sanatana Dharma.

Kolkata Police stated that Panoli was absconding, and all legal procedures were followed in her arrest from Gurgaon. They urged people to avoid sharing unverified claims.

The arrest has triggered a heated debate on freedom of expression and equal application of the law.