YouTuber Tapi Mishra Arrested Over Objectionable Remarks on Social Media

Bhubaneswar: The Infocity Police on Wednesday arrested YouTuber and fitness influencer Tapi Mishra over allegations of making objectionable remarks on social media.

While the exact nature of the comments and the complainant’s identity have not been disclosed, the arrest has triggered debates on social media about digital accountability and responsible online behaviour.

Reacting to the allegations, Tapi Mishra stated, “Whoever protects Dharma, Dharma will protect him. Every Hindu in Odisha is with me. I have been arrested for singing the Shiv Tandav Stotra.”

Mishra reportedly sparked controversy on March 17, 2025, when he allegedly harassed a woman author on Facebook after she criticized his inflammatory remarks.

Police sources said he used abusive language and threats, leading to a complaint under Sections 67 and 67A of the IT Act, which deal with transmitting obscene or offensive content electronically.

A former Indian Army veteran, Tapi Mishra transitioned into fitness influencing, Odia cinema, and entrepreneurship, earning a substantial digital following. His acting credits include ‘Mahabahu’ and ‘Dil Re Lekhichi Tori Naa’, and he also owns multiple hotel ventures.

However, the controversy has damaged his reputation as a motivational figure, with netizens and activists calling for stricter regulations on social media influencers who misuse digital platforms.

Authorities have yet to clarify whether further action will be taken against him.