Balochistan Army Voices Support for Sharmistha Amid Controversial Arrest in India
By Kishan Baraiya
Published on May 31, 2025, at 03:38 PM IST
In a surprising turn of events, the Balochistan Army, represented by the X account @BaluchFighter, has publicly extended its support to Sharmistha Panoli, a 19-year-old Indian law student who was arrested in Kolkata on May 30, 2025. Sharmistha’s arrest stems from a viral video where she allegedly used offensive language against Pakistan, sparking widespread outrage among Indian Muslims and leading to her detention. The Balochistan Army’s stance has added an unexpected geopolitical dimension to an already polarized domestic issue in India.
The Controversy Surrounding Sharmistha
Sharmistha Panoli, a fourth-year law student at Symbiosis Institute in Pune, found herself at the center of a storm after posting a video on Instagram. The video, which has since been deleted, was reportedly a reaction to the recent Pehalgam terrorist attack and India’s subsequent Operation Sindoor targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK). In the video, Sharmistha allegedly used derogatory language not only against Pakistan but also made remarks that were perceived as insulting to Islam and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), according to netizens and various reports.
The video quickly went viral, drawing sharp criticism from Indian Muslim communities and political figures. AIMIM leader Waris Pathan publicly demanded her arrest, stating, “This woman’s offensive remarks about our beloved Prophet (PBUH) are intolerable. She’s spreading hate in society, and the Home Ministry must ensure justice.” Following intense pressure, Kolkata Police traveled to Gurugram and arrested Sharmistha on May 30, 2025. She was produced before Alipore Court in Kolkata on May 31, facing charges under sections 196, 299, and 353 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for promoting enmity, outraging religious feelings, and public mischief.
Sharmistha issued an unconditional apology, stating, “My video was my personal opinion, and I never intended to hurt anyone’s religious feelings. I apologize if my words caused pain.” She also explained that her remarks were a response to trolling and threats from “radical Pakistani terrorists,” emphasizing her patriotism with the statement, “Mere liye mera desh pehle aata hai” (My country comes first for me). Despite her apology and the deletion of the video, the arrest has sparked a heated debate on social media.
Balochistan Army’s Unexpected Support
On May 31, 2025, at 03:11 UTC, the X account @BaluchFighter, associated with the Balochistan Army, posted a message in support of Sharmistha, accompanied by her image. The post read: “She is Sharmistha. Sharmistha, a resident of India, was arrested due to pressure from Indian Muslims after she used offensive words against Pakistan. But the question is, why do Indian Muslims have so much love for enemy countries? Balochistan is in support of this girl. #ReleaseSharmistha.”
The Balochistan Army’s support comes amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly following Operation Sindoor and the Baloch independence movement’s recent activities. On May 8, 2025, Baloch writer Mir Yar Baloch declared Balochistan’s independence from Pakistan, urging the United Nations for recognition and requesting India to allow a Baloch embassy in Delhi. The Balochistan Army’s backing of Sharmistha appears to be a strategic move, aligning their cause with Indian nationalist sentiments while questioning the loyalty of Indian Muslims to the nation.
Polarized Reactions on Social Media
The X thread following @BaluchFighter’s post reveals a deeply divided public response. Some users, like @TatvikOm, praised Sharmistha’s boldness and nationalism, stating, “She used vulgar language… I never use it. BUT; She made a new fan, I really loved the way she expressed. I loved her boldness and Nationalism.” Others, such as @ShaluSharma, highlighted her young age and apology, arguing, “She’s only 19 and has rendered her apologies. She should be allowed to go back to her family.”
However, not all reactions were supportive. @junaidkhanak11 countered the narrative, claiming, “Wrong post she used the missword for our prophet Muhammad SAW,” reflecting the hurt sentiments of many in the Muslim community. Meanwhile, @3KaalaBhairava thanked the Baloch for their support but expressed concern over India’s internal dynamics, stating, “India is aware of what’s happening now… Indian Muslims have openly showed their allegiance with Pakistan in the name of the religious connect. So it’s hard to trust them anymore!! #EnemyWithin.”
A Broader Geopolitical Context
The Balochistan Army’s involvement underscores the complex interplay of regional politics and domestic issues in India. Balochistan, a resource-rich province in Pakistan, has long been a site of conflict, with separatist movements accusing the Pakistani state of exploitation and oppression. The Balochistan Army’s support for Sharmistha may be an attempt to gain favor with Indian nationalists, especially at a time when India-Pakistan tensions are high following Operation Sindoor and the Pehalgam attack.
At the same time, the controversy raises questions about freedom of expression, religious sensitivities, and the role of social media in amplifying such issues. Sharmistha’s arrest has been criticized by some as an overreach, with users like @devdebunks alleging that it reflects an attempt to suppress nationalist voices. Others argue that her remarks crossed a line, warranting legal action to maintain communal harmony.
What Lies Ahead?
As Sharmistha awaits further legal proceedings, the debate surrounding her arrest continues to rage on. The Balochistan Army’s support has added a new layer to the controversy, potentially influencing public sentiment and diplomatic relations in the region. For now, the hashtag #ReleaseSharmistha is gaining traction, with many calling for a balanced approach that respects both freedom of speech and religious sensitivities.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges India faces in navigating its diverse social fabric amid external geopolitical pressures. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on how the Indian government and judiciary handle this delicate matter.
About the Author:
Kishan Baraiya is the founder of kishanbaraiya.com, a blog dedicated to covering social, political, and cultural issues with a focus on fostering informed discussions. Follow us for more updates on this story and other pressing topics.