Kolkata College Student Arrested for Objectionable Posts Related to Rape-Murder Case
A 23-year-old college student, Kirti Sharma, was arrested on Sunday for allegedly posting objectionable content on social media regarding the recent rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
Sharma, a resident of Lake Town, was detained by Kolkata Police after complaints were filed against her Instagram posts. The posts reportedly included the victim’s picture and personal details, a breach of legal protections regarding the victim’s identity. Additionally, Sharma is accused of making offensive comments and threats directed at West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Police officials stated that Sharma’s posts were deemed “provocative in nature” and had the potential to incite social unrest and communal hatred. An FIR was lodged under relevant sections of the Indian Bharat Nyay Sanhita, leading to her arrest.
The arrest follows widespread protests and outrage from the medical community over the brutal crime. The police have previously issued summonses to former BJP MP Locket Chatterjee and two senior doctors for allegedly spreading misinformation and disclosing the victim’s identity. A total of 57 individuals have been summoned for sharing false information about the incident.
Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal emphasized that such actions have hindered the investigation and threatened public order. Kirti Sharma is scheduled to appear before a sessions court today.
