Did Cong MP Karti Chidambaram Condemn the Arrest of Law Student Sharmishta Panoli Over a Social Media Post?
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Synopsis
Karti P. Chidambaram has criticized the arrest of Sharmishta Panoli, a law student and social media influencer, by Kolkata Police. This case raises serious questions about freedom of expression and the limits of police authority in a democratic society. Dive into the implications of this incident and what it means for online dissent.
Key Takeaways
- Karti P. Chidambaram criticized the arrest of Sharmishta Panoli.
- The arrest is viewed as a misuse of police authority.
- Concerns over freedom of expression are highlighted.
- Sharmishta was arrested due to a social media post.
- The incident has sparked debate on online dissent.
Chennai, May 31 (NationPress) The Congress leader and MP Karti P. Chidambaram has criticized the detention of law student and Instagram influencer Sharmishta Panoli by Kolkata Police, labeling it a “gross misuse of police authority”.
Expressing his worry regarding the rising incidents of interstate arrests linked to social media activity, the Congress MP asserted that such actions are unwarranted unless they present a clear and immediate danger to public order.
“The trend of interstate arrests related to social media posts (unless it’s clearly shown to have caused a law & order issue) is clearly a misuse of police authority,” Karti expressed on the social media platform, ‘X’.
On May 30, Sharmishta Panoli was apprehended by Kolkata Police in Gurugram after a video circulated where she allegedly criticized Bollywood celebrities for their silence on “Operation Sindoor”.
The video gained substantial attention on Instagram, leading to online backlash, with numerous users inundating her profile with trolling messages and threats.
Despite Panoli deleting the post and issuing a public apology, Kolkata Police filed a complaint and served legal notices to her and her family.
She was subsequently taken into custody and brought to Kolkata on a transit remand.
On May 31, Panoli appeared in front of the Alipore Chief Judicial Magistrate Court.
Although the police requested her custody, the court denied the appeal and instead placed her in judicial custody until June 13. As she was led away from the court, Panoli voiced her distress over the arrest, stating, “The harassment you have inflicted in a democracy, this is not what democracy stands for.”
This incident has reignited discussions regarding freedom of expression, digital communication, and the application of police powers in matters involving social media.
Advocates for civil rights and opposition figures have expressed their concerns about what they see as a growing trend of punitive measures against online dissent.
Point of View
This incident underscores the delicate balance between law enforcement and civil liberties. While maintaining public order is essential, the actions taken against Sharmishta Panoli raise significant concerns about freedom of expression in the digital age. It is crucial for authorities to exercise discretion and consider the implications of their actions on democratic values.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the arrest of Sharmishta Panoli?
Sharmishta Panoli was arrested due to a video she posted criticizing Bollywood actors for their silence regarding 'Operation Sindoor'.
What did Karti Chidambaram say about the arrest?
Karti Chidambaram called the arrest a 'gross misuse of police authority' and raised concerns about interstate arrests related to social media.
What was the public reaction to the arrest?
The arrest prompted significant backlash on social media, with many users expressing outrage and trolling her online.
What is the legal status of Sharmishta Panoli following her arrest?
After her court appearance, Sharmishta Panoli was remanded to judicial custody until June 13.
What larger issues does this incident highlight?
This incident raises important questions about freedom of speech, digital expression, and the use of police powers in a democracy.
