Kolkata, 3 June (H.S.): The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken serious note of allegations that law student Sharmistha Panoli received rape and death threats while in police custody following her arrest over a social media post. The Commission has demanded a detailed report from the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police of West Bengal within ten days, raising critical questions about the role of Kolkata Police in the matter.

Sharmistha Panoli, a resident of Kolkata and a student at a law college in Pune, was arrested last Friday over a now-deleted social media post regarding “Operation Sindoor,” which allegedly contained objectionable remarks about a particular community. An FIR was lodged at the Garden Reach police station in Kolkata, and she was subsequently remanded to 14-day judicial custody by Alipore court.

However, serious allegations have emerged regarding her treatment in custody. Legal Rights Observatory (LRO), an advocacy group, filed a complaint with the NHRC claiming that Panoly was subjected to threats of sexual violence and death during her detention. The group further alleged that due process was not followed during her arrest from Gurugram, Haryana.

NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo confirmed the receipt of the complaint, stating, “It has been alleged that proper legal procedures were not followed during the arrest and transit. Furthermore, while in custody, the complainant was threatened by extremists with rape and murder.”

In response, the NHRC has directed West Bengal authorities to ensure Panoli's safety in custody. The Commission has also sought a response from the Haryana government regarding whether all legal protocols were followed during her arrest.

Bar Councils Condemn Arrest

The arrest has drawn sharp criticism from legal bodies. The Bar Council of India and the Bar Council of Delhi have both issued strong statements condemning the Kolkata Police's actions.

“I stand with Sharmistha Panoli, who was arrested and sent to judicial custody despite issuing an immediate apology for her now-deleted social media post,” said the Chairman of the Bar Council of India in a statement issued on June 1. “This is a travesty of justice and a direct assault on freedom of expression.”

Echoing this sentiment, the Bar Council of Delhi accused the police of selective and politically motivated action. “The arrest of Sharmistha Panoli by Kolkata Police appears to be excessive and influenced by political interests, seemingly carried out at the behest of the West Bengal government,” the council stated.

The case has ignited a nationwide debate over freedom of speech, selective law enforcement, and the protection of individuals in police custody. With the NHRC now involved, the matter has gained further prominence, and the response from both state governments is being closely watched.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh