Who Is Jyoti Adhikari? Social Media Influencer Arrested in Haldwani Over Controversial Remarks

Haldwani:
Social media influencer Jyoti Adhikari has been arrested in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, following a day-long police interrogation on Wednesday. After being produced before a court late at night, she was sent to 14 days of judicial custody. The arrest has sparked widespread discussion due to the nature of the allegations, which include hurting religious and social sentiments and alleged violation of the Arms Act.

Why Was Jyoti Adhikari Arrested?

According to police and media reports, Jyoti Adhikari came under the scanner after making objectionable remarks about women from the Kumaon and hill regions, as well as controversial statements questioning local deities. The issue escalated during protests related to the Ankita Bhandari murder case, where she was seen publicly brandishing a sickle (daranti) and making provocative statements.

During the protest, she allegedly referred to hill women in derogatory terms and questioned the authenticity of Kumaon’s folk deities, remarks that were perceived as deeply offensive to local cultural and religious beliefs. These statements led to the registration of a case against her for hurting religious sentiments and disturbing social harmony.

Sickle-Waving Incident Raises Alarm

One of the most serious aspects of the case was Jyoti Adhikari’s act of waving a sickle during a public gathering, where she reportedly said that the weapon would “deliver justice.” Police treated this act as a threat involving a weapon, prompting the addition of charges under the Arms Act.

She was subsequently summoned to the Mukhani police station for questioning. After several hours of interrogation, police formally arrested her and presented her before a remand magistrate around 11 pm on Wednesday night, following which she was sent to jail.

Supporters Create Ruckus

During the interrogation, Jyoti Adhikari’s supporters gathered outside the police station and created a commotion, putting pressure on the police. Law enforcement personnel remained engaged throughout the day to maintain law and order. By evening, news of her arrest became public, further intensifying reactions.

Who Is Jyoti Adhikari?

Jyoti Adhikari is a social media influencer active since 2021, primarily known for posting dance videos on platforms such as Facebook and YouTube. Over time, she also began commenting on social and political issues, often using aggressive language. She gained significant attention during the Ankita Bhandari case by posting repeated videos and making controversial public appearances.

Police sources suggest that her recent statements and actions may have been aimed at gaining publicity. However, authorities have taken the matter seriously, citing the potential threat to communal harmony and public order.

A History of Controversy

This is not the first time Jyoti Adhikari has been in the spotlight for controversial remarks. She has previously drawn criticism for using abusive language and making provocative statements on social media. This time, however, the combination of derogatory comments, religious insensitivity, and weapon display proved costly.

The police have stated that the investigation will continue and strict action will be taken to ensure that social peace and religious harmony are not disturbed.