Following the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives, a controversial video posted by social media figure Ms. Panoli has sparked legal and political turmoil. In the video, she made anti-Islamic remarks, used offensive language toward Pakistan, and mentioned an unverified “Operation Sindoor,” leading to widespread outrage. Despite issuing an apology on May 15—the same day the FIR was filed—Panoli was arrested and remains in judicial custody until June 13. Her bail plea was rejected, with the court citing the early stage of the investigation. TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh condemned the video, calling it a “deliberate provocation” that could severely impact public harmony. Legal experts warn the case could set an important precedent for how hate speech and misinformation are handled on social media platforms. The incident has reignited debate over the limits of free speech, especially during national crises. Political parties and law enforcement are emphasizing the importance of responsible digital conduct in maintaining communal peace. The case underscores a growing need for accountability in the online space as India navigates rising tensions and rapid digital engagement. Stay tuned to Democratic News TV for the latest updates on this unfolding story.
KEY WORDS: Pahalgam attack 2025 Ms. Panoli controversy Anti-Islamic remarks video Operation Sindoor claims Social media hate speech India FIR against Ms. Panoli Pakistan offensive video TMC Kunal Ghosh statement Freedom of speech India Judicial custody June 2025 Indian social media laws Hate speech consequences India Digital misinformation India Bail plea rejected news Pahalgam terror attack response Political reaction to hate speech Religious sentiments hurt video Viral controversial video India Social media arrest India Shibnath Democratic News TV
00:30You're watching Democratic News TV and I'm your host, Shibnath.
00:35In today's headline story, controversy brews following a social media video that sparked communal outrage after the Pahalgaam terror attack.
00:44The video, laced with inflammatory remarks and unverified claims, has triggered legal action and a fierce political response.
00:54Stay tuned as we break down the case, the reaction and what lies ahead.
01:00In the wake of the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgaam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 innocent lives, a video posted by social media personality Ms. Panoli has ignited widespread outrage and legal consequences.
01:14The video, shared shortly after the incident, contained remarks that were deemed anti-Islamic and featured offensive language directed at Pakistan.
01:26Additionally, Panoli made sensational and unverified allegations regarding an alleged Operation Sindur further fueling public tension.
01:35The timing and tone of the video were particularly concerning, coming at a moment when the nation was already reeling from the horrific attack.
01:44Law enforcement responded swiftly, registering an FIR on 15th May, the same day Ms.
01:52Panoli issued a public apology.
01:54In her statement, she expressed regret for her choice of words and attempted to clarify her intentions, stating that she did not mean to hurt religious sentiments or spread misinformation.
02:07However, the apology has not been enough to stem the legal and political consequences of her actions.
02:23This is a complete provocation, a deliberate trap.
02:27Such poisonous instigation is feared to have a very bad impact on the public.
02:32Therefore, there is no comparison with this post.
02:36Hence, according to the law, police action has been taken.
02:40His remarks reflect a growing concern within political circles that incendiary content on social media can stoke communal unrest and disrupt public harmony.
02:52Ms. Panoli is currently in judicial custody until 13th June.
02:57Her lawyer, Mahmoud Shamim, provided further insight into her legal status in a statement to the Hindu.
03:05She is in judicial custody till 13th June.
03:08Her bail plea was rejected because the court said that the investigation is still at a nascent stage and they wanted to give time to the officers to investigate the matter, he said.
03:20The judiciary's stance underscores the seriousness with which the case is being handled.
03:26The court appears to be prioritizing a thorough investigation before considering any request for bail,
03:32indicating that the authorities view this as more than just a case of controversial speech.
03:39Legal experts suggest that the case could set a precedent for how provocative social media content is treated under Indian law.
03:47The charges could potentially include promoting enmity between groups, hurting religious sentiments, and incitement to violence, offenses that carry significant penalties.
03:58At the heart of the issue is the question of responsibility and restraint in public communication, especially on platforms with wide-reach like social media.
04:10While freedom of expression remains a cornerstone of Indian democracy, the misuse of that freedom, particularly in times of national crisis, can have far-reaching consequences.
04:21The video not only aggravated an already tense atmosphere but also introduced unverified narratives that could mislead the public and hamper national unity.
04:33The mention of Operation Sindur, a term that has not been verified or acknowledged by any credible security or intelligence sources,
04:43added a layer of conspiracy that authorities are now compelled to investigate thoroughly.
04:48Public reactions have been divided.
04:52While some have supported the police action, citing the dangerous potential of such content,
04:58others have argued that the arrest may raise questions about freedom of speech.
05:04However, legal analysts clarify that speech which incites hatred or disrupts public peace does not fall under the umbrella of protected expression.
05:14Political parties have also weighed in.
05:17T.M.C.'s sharp criticism underscores the gravity with which mainstream political entities are viewing such incidents.
05:25The party's statement points to a broader concern about social stability and the potential for politically motivated provocations during sensitive times.
05:35It highlights a growing trend where emotionally charged events are followed by a spike in misinformation and polarizing commentary on digital platforms.
05:48With elections and public sentiments at stake, authorities are increasingly vigilant about online content that can destabilize communal harmony or spread falsehoods.
06:00In conclusion, the case of Ms. Panoly serves as a stark reminder of the power and potential peril of unchecked digital expression.
06:09As the investigation continues, all eyes will be on legal proceedings and the broader implications for social media accountability in India.
06:18You were watching Democratic News TV with me, Shibnath.
06:23As the nation mourns the Pehalgaam tragedy, the need for responsible speech becomes ever more crucial.
06:29The law is now in motion and justice must follow a careful path.
06:34For more updates on this evolving story and beyond, stay tuned and stay informed.
