‘Secularism isn't shield for some...’ Pawan Kalyan backs Sharmishta, takes swipe at TMC

Hyderabad: Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan on Saturday voiced strong criticism over the arrest of social media influencer Sharmishta Panoli by the West Bengal Police, calling for a fair and consistent approach to secularism in the country.

In a statement posted on social media platform X, Kalyan stressed that “secularism must be a two-way street” and urged the authorities to act “justly.” While acknowledging that “blasphemy must be condemned,” the actor-turned-politician questioned why similar actions are not taken when elected leaders allegedly insult Sanatana Dharma.

“During Operation Sindoor, Sharmishta, a law student, spoke out — her words were unfortunate and hurtful to some. She recognised her mistake, removed the video and apologised. The WB Police responded quickly and acted against her,” he wrote.

“But what about the pain caused to millions when Members of Parliament from the TMC mock Sanatana Dharma? Where is the outrage when our religion is referred to as ‘Gandha Dharm’? Where are their apologies and swift arrests?” he added.

Kalyan concluded by stating, “Secularism isn't a shield for some and a sword for others.  It must be a two-way street. It must apply equally. West Bengal Police, the nation is watching. Act justly for all. #IstandwithSharmistha #EqualJustice.”

Why was Sharmishta Panoli arrested?

Influencer and law student Sharmishta Panoli was arrested by the Kolkata Police from Gurugram, Haryana, over a video clip that officials say promoted religious division. The now-deleted video was related to “Operation Sindoor” and criticised the silence of Bollywood celebrities on the issue.

The video quickly gained attention online and was labelled by many as hate speech. Following backlash and threats, Panoli took down the clip and shared a public apology via her Instagram story, saying she never intended to hurt anyone’s sentiments.

Despite her apology, an FIR had already been lodged in Kolkata. Police sources said several attempts were made to issue legal notices to Panoli and her family. When these efforts failed, an arrest warrant was issued, resulting in her detention on Friday night.

She was presented before a local court and later transported to Kolkata under transit remand.

According to reports, she has been charged under sections 196(1)(a) (promoting enmity between religious groups), 299 (acts intended to outrage religious feelings), 352 (intentional insult to provoke breach of peace), and 353(1)(c) (inciting public mischief) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Following the arrest, Panoli made her social media accounts private and removed earlier posts. Her apology, issued on 15 May, remains as a story highlight, where she reiterated that her intentions were not to offend.

(With agency inputs)