Dutch MP Geert Wilders demands release of Indian law student Sharmistha Panoli, arrested over communal Instagram post. Calls arrest a blow to freedom of expression.
Dutch Politician Geert Wilders Supports Arrested Indian Law Student Sharmistha Panoli
New Delhi/Amsterdam – The arrest of 22-year-old law student Sharmistha Panoli has triggered a political storm both in India and abroad. She was detained by Kolkata Police for allegedly posting communal content on Instagram. While her arrest has sparked debate over freedom of speech in India, it has now drawn international attention as Dutch right-wing leader Geert Wilders voiced strong support for her.
Who is Sharmistha Panoli and Why Was She Arrested?
Sharmistha Panoli, a student originally from Pune, was arrested from Gurgaon by the West Bengal Police and brought to Kolkata. She was presented before the Alipore Court and has been placed in judicial custody for 14 days.
Her arrest stems from a video she uploaded on Instagram regarding ‘Operation Sindoor’. In the video, she allegedly made objectionable remarks against Pakistan and the Muslim community. Although she deleted the video later and issued an apology, authorities proceeded with legal action. She now faces multiple charges under the Indian Penal Code, including:
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Promoting enmity between different groups
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Deliberate acts intended to hurt religious sentiments
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Making inflammatory comments to disrupt public peace
Political Reactions in India
Sharmistha’s arrest has ignited sharp political reactions. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikari criticized the West Bengal government, calling the move a “politics of appeasement” by the ruling Trinamool Congress.
In support of Panoli, Bar Council of India Chairman and Rajya Sabha MP Manan Kumar Mishra condemned the arrest, calling it an “attack on freedom of expression.” He also demanded her immediate release.
Geert Wilders Condemns Arrest, Appeals to PM Modi
Geert Wilders, a well-known Dutch politician and leader of the right-wing Party for Freedom (PVV), has come out in strong support of Panoli. Known for his outspoken views on Islam, Wilders took to social media, calling her arrest “a disgrace to freedom of expression.”
“Release brave Sharmistha Panoli! It is a disgrace to freedom of expression that she was arrested. Do not punish her for speaking the truth about Pakistan and Muhammad. Prime Minister Modi should help her!” – Geert Wilders on X (formerly Twitter)
Wilders also posted a photo of Panoli with the caption “All Eyes on Sharmistha,” echoing a recent social media trend.
Free Speech vs. Hate Speech: Ongoing Debate in India
Sharmistha Panoli’s case has reignited a national debate around freedom of expression on digital platforms. While many argue that citizens have the right to voice their opinions, others believe that comments promoting communal disharmony cannot be tolerated.
Legal experts suggest that freedom of speech is not absolute under Indian law and must be balanced with public order and communal harmony. However, critics argue that the law is often used selectively, depending on political leanings and public pressure.
What’s Next for Sharmistha Panoli?
Panoli remains in judicial custody while investigations continue. Her legal team is expected to file for bail, and various public figures continue to voice opinions on the matter. As the case develops, it is likely to influence upcoming discussions on the boundaries of online speech and the legal system’s role in regulating it.
Conclusion
Sharmistha Panoli’s arrest has turned into a high-profile case drawing both national and international attention. With leaders like Geert Wilders now involved and political tensions rising in India, the situation underscores the fragile balance between freedom of speech and legal restrictions in the digital age.
