Police File Case Against Bengali Actor Over Allegedly Offensive PM Modi Poster

Bengali actor Sreelekha Mitra has come under legal scrutiny after multiple complaints were filed against her over an allegedly objectionable poster of Prime Minister Narendra Modi displayed during a student protest in Kolkata. The complaints follow her participation in demonstrations held on Friday against the alleged NEET question paper leak, where protesters also demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The first complaint was lodged by BJP leader Keya Ghosh at Anandapur Police Station on Sunday. According to Ghosh, the complaint was filed over a poster that allegedly carried a derogatory image of Prime Minister Modi, which Mitra was reportedly seen holding during the protest. Reports also suggest that similar complaints have been submitted at several police stations across West Bengal, including the Bidhannagar Cyber Crime Police Station, seeking legal action against the actor.

Addressing the media, Ghosh alleged that the poster insulted the office of the Prime Minister and warranted immediate action. "A complaint has been filed against actress Sreelekha Mitra for displaying a distasteful poster targeting the Prime Minister. This FIR has been lodged over the insult of the country's Prime Minister. Sreelekha Mitra must be arrested as soon as possible," she said. Authorities have not yet issued an official statement on the status of the complaints or whether an FIR has been formally registered in all the cases reported.

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The controversy arose during a student-led protest in Kolkata on Friday, where demonstrators gathered to express their anger over the alleged NEET question paper leak. The protesters demanded accountability over the examination controversy and called for the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan. The alleged paper leak has sparked protests in several parts of the country, with students and political groups accusing authorities of failing to ensure a fair and transparent examination process.

Mitra, known for her work in Bengali cinema and her outspoken views on social and political issues, joined the demonstration alongside students and activists. During the protest, photographs circulated on social media allegedly showing the actor holding a poster that featured a derogatory depiction of Prime Minister Modi. The images quickly drew criticism from BJP leaders, who accused her of insulting the Prime Minister and hurting public sentiments.

The incident soon became a subject of political debate, prompting multiple complaints seeking legal action. According to the complaints, the allegations invoke Sections 352, 353 and 356 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The complainants have cited provisions relating to provocation with intent to cause a breach of peace, public support for provocative conduct and defamation. Police have not yet disclosed whether they have begun a formal investigation or issued any notice to the actor in connection with the complaints.

The legal action comes amid heightened political tensions surrounding the NEET controversy, which has triggered widespread protests and demands for accountability. While supporters of the protests argue that public demonstrations are an expression of democratic rights, critics have questioned the use of imagery they consider offensive or defamatory. As of now, Sreelekha Mitra has not publicly responded to the complaints or the allegations against her. The investigation is expected to proceed in accordance with legal procedures, and further action will depend on the findings of the police and the outcome of the complaints filed across the state.

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