Law Student, Social Media Influencer
As of 2025, Sharmishta Panoli is a 22-year-old law student and Instagram influencer. She gained national attention in May 2025 when she was arrested by Kolkata Police in Gurugram, Haryana, for allegedly sharing a provocative video regarding 'Operation Sindoor'. The video was deemed communal and inciteful, despite being deleted and followed by a public apology. She is currently in judicial custody. The incident has sparked nationwide debate on freedom of speech and selective enforcement of law based on religious sensitivities.
She studied law at Symbiosis International University in Pune.
The viral video involved criticism of Bollywood celebrities’ silence on certain issues.
Her arrest led to criticism from politicians and legal bodies, including BJP leaders and the Bar Council of India.