23-year-old, Kirti Sharma, a college student in Kolkata was arrested from her Lake Town home on August 18. She was nabbed for allegedly posting objectionable content against West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee. She was also held on grounds of disclosing the identity of trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata.

According to the Police, Sharma shared three posts revealing Kolkata rape-murder victim’s image and identity, which a punishable offense. Additionally, she issued threats to CM Mamata Banerjee in two of her stories and made “offensive remarks” against her. The police said that her posts were deemed as ‘provocative’ in nature and was potentially inciteful prompting concerns of creating social unrest and communal hatred.

Kolkata Police launched an FIR against Sharma under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and arrested her on Sunday afternoon, day after the complaint was filed.

Attorney Criticizes Swift Arrest Of Kirti Sharma

Attorney Soumya Subhra Rat criticized Sharma’s rapid arrest, suggesting that it might be done to appease higher authorities.

Sharma will appear before a sessions court today. As per India Today’s report, Attorney Rat said “Police acted hastily, arresting the suspect without investigation or prior notice to appear.”

Kolkata Police Summon High-Profile Figures

Sharma’s arrest comes amid growing outrage and protests by the medical community over the brutal crime against Kolkata’s trainee doctor. A few days ago, Kolkata Police issued summonses to former BJP MP Locket Chatterjee and two doctors for allegedly spreading rumors and disclosing the identity of the victim. Additionally, 57 others have been summoned in the case for spreading misinformation, a police official said.