Why Was an FIR Filed Against a PG Student Over Her Instagram Post on 'Operation Sindoor'?
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Synopsis
An FIR has been filed against a postgraduate student in Mangaluru for her Instagram post opposing 'Operation Sindoor', the military's response to a tragic terrorist attack. The situation has sparked significant debate on freedom of expression and national security. Discover the unfolding controversy surrounding her statements and the implications for civil discourse.
Key Takeaways
- An FIR has been registered against a postgraduate student in Mangaluru.
- The student criticized 'Operation Sindoor' in her Instagram post.
- The post led to significant public backlash and demands for legal action.
- The charges against her include promoting enmity and inciting a riot.
- The incident highlights tensions between freedom of expression and national security.
Mangaluru (Karnataka), May 10 (NationPress) – An FIR has been lodged by Karnataka Police against a postgraduate student for her Instagram post that criticized 'Operation Sindoor', a military initiative by the Indian armed forces in response to a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir which resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals.
The FIR was registered by the Konaje police in Mangaluru following a complaint received on this matter, as stated by police officials on Saturday.
According to the authorities, the student, who comes from the sensitive region of Mangaluru, shared a message on Instagram that condemned 'Operation Sindoor'. Her post opposed the military actions targeting locations within Pakistan.
Identified as Reshma N. Bariga, a resident of Belalu near Belthangady and a student at Mangaluru University, she wrote her objectionable post on Instagram.
In her message, she employed the hashtag #dikkaraoperationSindoora (Down with Operation Sindoor) and composed poetic lines that lamented the futility of war. Her poem, penned in Kannada, conveyed that the result of war is 'total darkness.' The post ignited controversy, leading her to remove it. Nevertheless, she subsequently published another post reaffirming her opposition to 'Operation Sindoor'.
Several individuals, including members from certain Hindu organizations, urged the police to take legal steps against Reshma. A complaint was lodged by Chandrashekar Putta Marati, a resident of Savale, Kallahalli, at the Konaje police station.
In response to the complaint, the police have filed an FIR under Sections 192 (deliberately provoking with intent to incite a riot), 196 (fostering enmity among various groups based on religion, race, place of birth, residence, or language, and actions detrimental to maintaining harmony), 353(1)(b) and 353(2) (statements contributing to public mischief).
Amidst the backlash, Reshma released a new statement expressing her love and respect for her nation.
“My concern is that every citizen should live peacefully and prosperously in this country. I am proud to have been born in India. I do not want anyone to lose their life to terrorism. War affects many. The shadow of terrorism should not fall on India. Let peace and harmony prevail. My intention was solely to advocate for the elimination of terrorism,” she articulated.
The police are conducting further investigations into the incident.
Point of View
It is imperative to emphasize that while the right to express dissent is fundamental, it must be balanced with the sensitivities surrounding national security. This incident highlights the ongoing tension between freedom of speech and the responsibility of citizens to foster harmony in a diverse society. It’s crucial to engage in constructive dialogue while respecting the sentiments tied to national pride and security.
NationPress
24/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Operation Sindoor'?
Operation Sindoor is a military operation launched by the Indian armed forces in response to a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir.
Why was the FIR filed against the student?
The FIR was filed due to her Instagram post that criticized Operation Sindoor, which some perceived as promoting enmity.
What are the legal implications of the FIR?
The FIR includes charges under sections that address incitement to riot and promoting enmity between groups.
How did the public react to the student's post?
The post sparked significant controversy, leading to demands for legal action against the student from various groups.
What was the student's response to the backlash?
The student issued a statement expressing her respect for India and clarified her intentions to call for peace and an end to terrorism.
