Is Free Sharmistha a Call to Prevent West Bengal from Becoming Another North Korea?
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Synopsis
Join Bollywood star Kangana Ranaut as she passionately defends Sharmistha Panoli, who was arrested for a social media post. This incident raises questions about freedom of speech and the political climate in West Bengal. Explore the implications of such actions on democracy and individual rights in India.
Key Takeaways
- Kangana Ranaut advocates for Sharmistha Panoli’s release.
- The arrest highlights concerns over freedom of speech in India.
- Criticism of the West Bengal government for authoritarian actions.
- Public figures are calling for equality in religious matters.
- Sharmistha's case raises questions about democratic rights.
New Delhi, June 1 (NationPress) In a show of solidarity for creator Sharmistha Panoli, Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut criticized the recent arrest over a now-deleted social media comment, labeling it as unjust and reminiscent of a North Korea-style dictatorship.
Kangana, recognized for her portrayal of strong female characters, voiced her concerns about the impact of this incident on the influencer and law student’s career following her arrest by the Kolkata Police.
“No girl or daughter should have to endure such authoritarianism,” Ranaut stated during a media interaction at an event in Delhi.
Pointing fingers at the Trinamool government in West Bengal, the acclaimed actress and BJP MP from Mandi in Himachal Pradesh, stated, “I urge the government of West Bengal not to transform the state into another North Korea.”
“Every individual has constitutional rights… if she made an inappropriate comment, she later apologized for it. It appears she made the statement in a general sense. Today's youth often use such language in everyday conversations,” she argued, advocating strongly for Sharmistha’s release.
Previously, actor and politician Pawan Kalyan, the Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, also expressed support for Sharmistha, urging the West Bengal Police to act fairly.
Kalyan condemned the perceived double standards of the state police concerning religious matters, stating on X, “But what about the profound, painful experiences inflicted upon millions when elected leaders and MPs of TMC ridicule Sanatana Dharma? Where is the public outcry when our faith is disparaged as 'Gandha Dharm'? Where are their apologies? Where is the immediate action?”
“Blasphemy must always be denounced! Secularism should be equitable for all. It cannot serve as a shield for some and a weapon for others. West Bengal Police, the nation is observing. Act fairly for everyone,” remarked the BJP MP.
Twenty-two-year-old Sharmistha was detained on Saturday in Gurugram, Haryana, by Kolkata Police for sharing videos with communal references during Operation Sindoor.
Afterward, Sharmistha deleted the video and issued a public apology.
The FIR against her at Garden Reach Police Station, filed on May 15, includes charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for inciting religious animosity, willfully hurting religious sentiments, and instigating a breach of peace.
Following her arrest, the law student was presented in court, which sentenced her to 14 days of judicial custody.
Point of View
It is imperative to uphold the values of democracy and freedom of expression. The arrest of Sharmistha Panoli raises crucial questions regarding the balance between maintaining public order and respecting individual rights. It is essential for the authorities to ensure justice is fairly administered without bias, reflecting the principles of our constitution.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Sharmistha Panoli arrested?
Sharmistha Panoli was arrested by Kolkata Police for sharing videos that contained communal remarks during Operation Sindoor. She later deleted the video and issued a public apology.
What did Kangana Ranaut say about Sharmistha's arrest?
Kangana Ranaut described the arrest as 'unjust' and likened the situation to a dictatorship similar to that of North Korea, emphasizing the need for democratic rights.
What are the charges against Sharmistha?
The FIR filed against Sharmistha includes charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for promoting enmity on religious grounds, deliberately outraging religious feelings, and provoking a breach of peace.
What is the public reaction to this incident?
There has been significant public concern regarding freedom of speech, with many celebrities and politicians voicing their support for Sharmistha and questioning the actions of the West Bengal government.
How does this incident relate to democracy in India?
This incident highlights critical issues about freedom of expression and the role of government in regulating speech. It raises important discussions on how such actions impact democratic values in India.
