Kolkata | June 5, 2025

The Calcutta High Court on Wednesday granted interim bail to law student Sharmistha Panoli, accused of posting an allegedly offensive video that was said to hurt religious sentiments.

Justice Tirthankar Ghosh, while hearing the plea, noted that custodial interrogation was not necessary at this stage. The Court directed Panoli to cooperate with the investigation and refrain from tampering with evidence.

Panoli was booked under Sections 295A and 153A IPC following complaints against a video she posted on social media. Her counsel argued that the content was misinterpreted and that she had already issued an apology.

The State opposed bail, citing the sensitive nature of the content. However, the Court granted relief, emphasizing the need to balance investigation with individual rights.

The matter will be heard again in the coming weeks.