Pawan Kalyan Criticizes Sharmistha Panoli’s Arrest, Calls for Equitable Secularism

KKN Gurugram Desk | Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Jana Sena Party leader Pawan Kalyan has voiced strong criticism over the arrest of 22-year-old law student and social media influencer Sharmistha Panoli. Panoli was apprehended by Kolkata Police in Gurugram for allegedly sharing a video with communal content related to ‘Operation Sindoor’. Kalyan emphasized that secularism should be applied equally to all communities, questioning the selective enforcement of laws concerning religious sentiments.

Background on Sharmistha Panoli’s Arrest

Sharmistha Panoli, a law student from Pune, posted a video on Instagram criticizing Bollywood celebrities for their silence on ‘Operation Sindoor’, India’s counter-offensive following the Pahalgam terror attack. The video, deemed offensive by some, led to multiple FIRs under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including promoting enmity between groups and intentional insult to provoke breach of peace. Despite deleting the video and issuing an unconditional apology, Panoli was arrested and remanded to 14-day judicial custody.

Pawan Kalyan’s Response

Pawan Kalyan condemned the arrest, stating that while Panoli’s words were regrettable, she had acknowledged her mistake and apologized. He questioned the absence of similar swift action against leaders who have made derogatory remarks about Sanatana Dharma, highlighting a perceived double standard in the enforcement of laws related to religious sentiments.

“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,” Kalyan asserted.

Broader Implications

The incident has sparked a broader debate on freedom of expression and the equitable application of secular principles in India. Critics argue that selective enforcement undermines the foundational values of secularism and justice. The case continues to draw attention to the challenges of balancing religious sensitivities with free speech rights in a diverse society.