Dutch MP Geert Wilders Defends Sharmistha Panoli, Urges PM Modi to Take Urgent Action

The arrest of Sharmistha Panoli, a 22-year-old Indian law student and social media influencer, has sparked international attention after Dutch MP Geert Wilders publicly voiced his support for her. Wilders, known for his outspoken views on free speech and political activism, called Panoli’s arrest a “disgrace for freedom of speech” and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene.

Panoli was arrested by Kolkata Police in Gurugram on May 30, 2025, following allegations that her social media video contained communal remarks. Despite deleting the video and issuing an unconditional apology, legal proceedings were initiated, leading to her detention.

What Led to the Arrest of Sharmistha Panoli?

Panoli’s arrest stems from a controversial video she posted on May 14, 2025, in response to a Pakistani social media user questioning India’s stance on the Pahalgam terror attack. In the video, she criticized Bollywood celebrities for their silence on Operation Sindoor, India’s military action against terror camps in Pakistan.

Her remarks were deemed derogatory and disrespectful by certain groups, leading to an FIR filed in Kolkata. The charges against her include:

• Promoting enmity between religious groups.
• Deliberate acts intended to outrage religious feelings.
• Intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace.

Despite removing the video and apologizing, Panoli was arrested after multiple failed attempts to serve legal notices.

Geert Wilders’ Support & Global Reaction

Dutch MP Geert Wilders, leader of the Party for Freedom, took to social media to condemn Panoli’s arrest. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote:
“Free the brave Sharmistha Panoli! It’s a disgrace for freedom of speech that she was arrested. Don’t punish her for speaking the truth about Pakistan and Muhammad. Help her @narendramodi.”

His statement has fueled a global debate on free speech, with supporters arguing that Panoli’s arrest reflects political suppression, while critics maintain that her remarks were inflammatory.

Political & Legal Implications in India

Panoli’s arrest has triggered political controversy, with BJP leader Amit Malviya stating:
“A young Hindu girl is being targeted to appease a vote bank.”

Meanwhile, Kolkata Police defended their actions, stating that Panoli had gone into hiding, making legal proceedings difficult. They emphasized that her arrest followed due process, dismissing claims of unlawful detention.

The case raises critical questions about:

• Freedom of speech vs. communal sensitivity.
• Selective enforcement of laws.
• Political influence in legal proceedings.

Conclusion

The Sharmistha Panoli controversy highlights the complex intersection of free speech, political influence, and legal enforcement. As global voices weigh in, the case continues to spark debate on India’s approach to digital expression and activism.

Also read – MIT Crackdown: Indian-Origin Student Megha Vemuri Banned Over Pro-Palestine Speech on May 29