Social media influencer Sharmistha Panoli has suddenly found herself in the middle of a major controversy. Panoli was arrested by Kolkata Police in Gurugram, Haryana, for allegedly posting a communal video that caused a storm online. Here’s everything you need to know about who she is, why she was arrested, and what Bollywood star Kangana Ranaut said in her support.Who is Sharmistha Panoli?Sharmistha Panoli is a 22-year-old law student at Pune Law University and a popular Instagram influencer. As of today her public Instagram handle has 93.1k followers and no posts. Known for speaking her mind on current issues, she came into the spotlight after posting a video on 14 May 2025. What was in the video?According to multiple reports, Sharmistha uploaded a video on Instagram accusing Hindi film actors of staying silent on Operation Sindoor. The post caused a huge backlash, with many users trolling her and sending threatening messages. Facing criticism, Panoli deleted the video and issued an apology. However, a complaint had already been filed against her in Kolkata.Panoli’s public apologyAfter facing threats and public anger, Panoli issued an unconditional apology on 15 May via Instagram and X. She wrote, “I do hereby tender my UNCONDITIONAL APOLOGY. Whatever was put are my personal feelings and I never intentionally wanted to hurt anybody. So anybody is hurt, I’m sorry… Henceforth, I will be cautious in my public posts.” Though she took down the video and apologised, the legal process moved forward.The arrest and legal actionAfter failing to receive a response to legal notices sent to Panoli and her family, Kolkata Police issued an arrest warrant. She was tracked down in Gurugram and taken into custody, then brought to Kolkata on transit remand.As reported by India TV, when she was presented in court, the magistrate turned down both the police’s request for custody and Panoli’s plea for bail. She was sent to judicial custody until 13 June 2025. Police also seized her phone and laptop to check if any manipulated or offensive content still existed on her devices.Kangana Ranaut stands by SharmisthaAmid all the outrage and legal drama, actress and politician Kangana Ranaut came out in support of Panoli. Sharing her opinion through Instagram Stories, Kangana said, “I agree that Sharmistha used some unpleasant words for her expression, but such words most youngsters use these days. She apologised for her statements and that should be enough. No need to bully and harass her further. She should be released immediately.”
