BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra strongly criticised the arrest of law student Sharmishta Panoli, calling it a “blatant assault on freedom of expression” and a dangerous trend that threatens democratic values and constitutional rights.
Sharmishta Panoli, a 22-year-old law student and influencer from Pune, was arrested for a controversial video on Operation Sindoor that sparked public outrage and led to her being placed in judicial custody until June 13. Despite apologizing and deleting the video, criticism and legal actions followed her arrest, raising political concerns about misuse of police powers.
Influencer Sharmishta Panoli was remanded to 14 days in custody by a Kolkata court after posting a video on Instagram that allegedly offended a minority community. Arrested in Gurugram, she faced backlash and threats, prompting legal action. Despite an apology and claims of personal feelings, legal notices were unsuccessfully delivered prior to her arrest.
Jyoti Rani’s lawyer, Kumar Mukesh, pledges to defend her espionage case amidst online backlash, asserting her innocence under Indian law. Jyoti, currently in judicial custody, is accused of sharing sensitive data with Pakistan. Mukesh plans to file a bail petition after reviewing case documents, which have yet to be received.
YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra, jailed on espionage charges, has appointed Advocate Kumar Mukesh to represent her in court, signing the necessary Vakalatnama. The first hearing is scheduled for June 9. Mukesh plans to file a bail application after receiving complete case documents. Jyoti is accused of sharing sensitive information with a Pakistani citizen.
Tahawwur Hussain Rana, accused in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, has requested a Delhi court to permit communication with his family while in judicial custody. The application will be heard by Special Judge Chander Jit Singh. Rana faces extradition to the U.S. for alleged terrorism support, drawing significant legal attention.
The Bombay High Court criticized the Maharashtra government for arresting a 19-year-old Pune student over a social media post concerning Indo-Pak tensions. The court deemed the response extreme, emphasizing the need for reform rather than punishment. It questioned the college’s decision to rusticate her and highlighted the importance of allowing students to learn from mistakes.
Travel vlogger Jyoti Malhotra has been jailed for her involvement in an espionage case linked to a suspected Pakistan spy network. Authorities recovered 10-12TB of data from her devices during the investigation, which includes a review of her financial transactions. She faces serious charges under national security laws.
Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad of Ashoka University was arrested on May 18 by Haryana Police for allegedly making objectionable social media posts about Operation Sindoor. The Supreme Court questioned his motivations for posting, labeling his statements as seeking attention. He remains in judicial custody, with a court hearing set for May 27, 2025.
A Sonepat court has placed Prof Ali Khan Mahmudabad in judicial custody following his Facebook post about India’s Operation Sindoor, provoking public outrage over perceived free speech violations. Arrested after police custody due to complaints, his case raises critical questions regarding the boundaries of free expression in national security discussions.