The Calcutta High Court on Wednesday granted interim bail to Sharmistha Panoli, a law student and social media influencer, days after her arrest over a controversial video related to Operation Sindoor.
Panoli, 22, was taken into custody by Kolkata Police on May 30 for allegedly posting a video that was said to contain communal overtones. The video quickly drew criticism online, and an FIR was registered against her under multiple sections, including promoting enmity between groups.
During the hearing, Justice Raja Basu Chowdhury directed that Panoli be released on a personal bond of ₹10,000. The court also imposed conditions, including the surrender of her passport and a restriction on leaving the country without permission. She has also been directed to fully cooperate with the investigation.
The court acknowledged concerns about Panoli’s safety following widespread backlash and instructed the Kolkata Police to ensure adequate protection for her.
Panoli had earlier removed the video from all her platforms and issued a public apology, claiming her comments were personal and not intended to incite hate. Her legal counsel highlighted her health issues — including a kidney ailment and ADHD — as factors that made continued custody harsh and unnecessary.
The case has stirred political debate in West Bengal. Opposition leaders questioned the state’s selective action against social media voices, alleging a clampdown on free speech.
The matter will be taken up again in the coming weeks as the investigation continues.
