Why Did the Delhi Bar Council Condemn the Arrest of Sharmistha Panoli?
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Synopsis
In a striking move, the Bar Council of Delhi condemned the arrest of law student Sharmistha Panoli by West Bengal Police. This incident raises crucial questions about freedom of expression and the role of law enforcement in politically charged environments. The call for her immediate release reflects broader concerns about justice and accountability in India.
Key Takeaways
- The arrest of Sharmistha Panoli has sparked widespread condemnation from legal authorities.
- The Bar Council of Delhi demands her immediate release.
- The incident highlights concerns regarding freedom of expression in India.
- Sharmistha's comments have led to serious legal charges against her.
- The case reflects ongoing tensions between law enforcement and political influence.
New Delhi, June 2 (NationPress) The Bar Council of Delhi (BCD) has expressed strong disapproval regarding the apprehension of 22-year-old law student Sharmistha Panoli by the West Bengal Police over a social media video. In a press release, BCD Chairman Surya Prakash Khatri stated that even though social media influencer Panoli promptly deleted the post and issued an apology, the Kolkata Police exhibited excessive force and unnecessary urgency.
“The excessive force and rapid action taken by the Kolkata Police in detaining Ms. Sharmistha Panoli, as if she were a criminal, highlights the selective, excessive, and politically charged actions of the Kolkata Police, undoubtedly executed at the direction of the West Bengal Government,” the press statement asserted.
Additionally, it pointed out that there is severe lawlessness in West Bengal with police complicity, where violence, injustices, and brutality are being perpetrated by groups backed by the state government. Chairman Khatri, representing BCD, called for the immediate release of Panoli to ensure justice is upheld.
Just a day prior, senior advocate and Chairman of the Bar Council of India Manan Kumar Mishra also demanded Sharmistha's swift release, urging the Bengal government and its police to cease the dangerous practice of targeting “specific voices”. Sharmistha was charged by the Kolkata Police following her allegedly controversial comments regarding Pakistan.
Previously, in a now-deleted video, Sharmistha criticized Bollywood actors for their silence concerning the Pahalgam terror attack and India's counter-terror operation, Operation Sindoor. According to media reports, the Kolkata Police has filed an FIR against the influencer under sections 196(1)(a) (promoting enmity between different groups based on religion, race, birthplace, residence, language, caste, or community), 299 (deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings), 352 (intentional insult aimed to provoke a breach of peace), and 353(1)(c) (statements inciting public mischief) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Point of View
It is essential to emphasize that the events surrounding Sharmistha Panoli's arrest reflect a troubling trend in the intersection of law enforcement and political influence. The Bar Council's condemnation is a vital reminder of the need for accountability and justice in protecting individual rights. Our position aligns with advocating for fairness and the importance of safeguarding freedom of expression.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to Sharmistha Panoli's arrest?
Sharmistha Panoli was arrested by the West Bengal Police due to a social media video that allegedly contained controversial remarks against Pakistan.
What is the Bar Council of Delhi's stance on her arrest?
The Bar Council of Delhi has strongly condemned her arrest, calling it politically motivated and demanding her immediate release.
What charges have been filed against Sharmistha Panoli?
She has been charged under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including promoting enmity and inciting public mischief.
How has the public reacted to this incident?
Public reactions have been mixed, with many expressing concerns about freedom of expression and the role of police in politically charged situations.
What are the implications of this case for law and order in India?
This case raises significant questions about the influence of political agendas on law enforcement actions and the protection of individual rights.
