'Secularism Must Be A Two-Way Street': Andhra Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan Slams Arrest Of Social Media Influencer

The arrest of 22 year old law student and social media influencer Sharmistha Panoli by Kolkata Police has triggered a major political controversy and drawn international attention.

The action followed her online video containing abusive and communally sensitive remarks, including criticism of Bollywood celebrities for remaining silent during Operation Sindoor, India’s counter-offensive after the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives.

An FIR was filed in Kolkata, invoking multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to promoting religious enmity and provocation of public disorder, according to NDTV report.

Panoli, who had deleted the video and issued an apology, was produced before a local court and remanded in judicial custody for 14 days.

Her arrest has sparked sharp political reactions.

Jana Sena Party chief and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan accused the West Bengal government of selective action.

"During Operation Sindoor, Sharmistha, a law student, spoke out, her words regrettable and hurtful to some. She owned her mistake, deleted the video and apologized. The WB Police swiftly acted, taking action against Sharmistha. But what about the deep, searing pain inflicted upon millions when elected leaders, MPs of TMC, mock Sanatana Dharma? Where is the outrage when our faith is called 'Gandha Dharm'? Where is their apology? Where is their swift arrest?” Pawan Kalyan posted on X.

"Blasphemy must be condemned, always! Secularism isn't a shield for some and a sword for others. It must be a two-way street. West Bengal Police, the nation is watching. Act justly for all," he added.

Adding an international dimension to the debate, Dutch MP and Party for Freedom leader Geert Wilders posted on X, “Free the brave Sharmistha Panoli! It’s a disgrace for the freedom of speech that she was arrested".

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