A 47-year-old Instagram influencer with nearly 10 lakh (1 million) followers was arrested by the Surat Cyber Crime Cell after posting a video deemed offensive to national sentiments.
The accused, identified as Simran Patel, uploaded the controversial reel on October 1—just a day before Gandhi Jayanti. The video featured the image of Mahatma Gandhi printed on a ₹500 currency note and portrayed it in a sexually suggestive and derogatory manner. According to officials, the clip also incorporated vulgar language, gestures, and objectionable remarks, which quickly caught traction online.
Public Outrage and Legal Action
The reel went viral within hours, triggering widespread anger across digital platforms. Acting on a formal complaint lodged by a social activist, the Surat Cyber Crime Cell initiated an immediate investigation. Cyber investigators analysed technical and digital evidence associated with the Instagram account to trace the source of the video, leading to Patel’s arrest in Gujarat’s Surat.
Law enforcement authorities have booked the influencer under Section 67 of the Information Technology (Amendment) Act, 2008, which specifically addresses the publishing or transmitting of obscene material in electronic form. Investigators are currently examining the timeline and motives behind the content creation, as well as tracking its digital distribution networks.
A Stern Warning to Content Creators
Following the arrest, Surat police issued a strong advisory targeting influencers and digital creators who attempt to gain likes, followers, or viral notoriety through sensationalism.
Authorities cautioned that posting obscene, controversial, or disrespectful content involving national leaders, religious symbols, or historic figures will draw strict legal consequences under applicable cyber and criminal laws.
The investigation remains ongoing as police determine the full scope of circulation and intent behind the video.
