Varanasi: A 21-year-old social media influencer was publicly assaulted by two classmates on the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth campus on Friday, allegedly after she body-shamed them in response to continuous trolling. The incident has sparked outrage and raised questions about online harassment and campus safety.
Incident Details
On Saturday, the influencer filed a First Information Report (FIR) against the two classmates and posted a video on social media describing how they had been taunting and trolling her. She explained that she retaliated by body-shaming them, after which they turned violent and attacked her. Enmity between them is also being cited as a possible reason for the assault.
Police Response
Sigra police station in-charge Shivakant Mishra confirmed that on receiving her complaint, a named FIR has been lodged against the accused under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections 115(2) (voluntary causing hurt), 352 (intentional insult with intent to provoke a breach of peace), and 351(2) (criminal intimidation). The police are investigating the matter further.
The Assault
The incident came to light after a video of the clash went viral on social media. The initial investigation revealed that final-year BA Mass Communication students had gathered outside their department for a farewell after semester exams. The celebration turned violent when two classmates pulled the woman, who claims to be a social media influencer, by her hair, knocked her down, and assaulted her. Another student who tried to intervene was also slapped by the accused. After being alerted, MGKV security personnel reached the spot and separated the students.
University Action
The MGKV administration has issued notices to the students involved in the fight and sought explanations before deciding on further action. The university is expected to take disciplinary measures based on the findings.
Broader Context
This incident highlights the growing issue of online trolling and its offline consequences. Social media influencers often face harassment, and this case underscores the need for better mechanisms to address such conflicts. The police have assured a thorough investigation.
