A Tragic Reminder of the Power and Peril of Social Media

 A Tragic Reminder of the Power and Peril of Social Media

 A tragic incident from Kerala has once again brought into focus the immense impact social media can have on individual lives, reputations, and mental health.

A 40-year-old man from Govindapuram in Kozhikode allegedly died by suicide on Sunday, days after a video accusing him of sexual harassment went viral on social media. The incident has sparked widespread debate, raising difficult questions about online accountability, public shaming, and the consequences of viral accusations.

What Happened?

The controversy began when a woman shared a video on social media claiming that the man had deliberately touched her with sexual intent while travelling on a crowded bus. The video was reportedly recorded during a journey from Payyannur railway station to the nearby bus stand. Within a short time, the clip spread rapidly across platforms, amassing over 20 lakh views and drawing intense public attention.

The reactions online were swift and harsh. As often happens in viral cases, opinions poured in before any official investigation could establish facts. While some users expressed outrage and support for the woman, others questioned the circumstances and the manner in which the accusation was made publicly.

The Aftermath

According to police, the man was found hanging at his residence early Sunday morning. His parents were at home at the time and became alarmed when he failed to respond to repeated calls. Neighbours were alerted, the door was forced open, and he was found dead.

Family members and relatives have stated that he was under severe mental distress following the viral spread of the video. They allege that he was subjected to relentless online abuse and character assassination, which deeply affected him. According to them, he was a private individual who generally stayed away from controversy and struggled to cope with the sudden public scrutiny.

The man worked as a sales manager at a textile store in Kozhikode and frequently travelled for work. Family members said he had travelled to Kannur last Friday, after which the video surfaced online.

A Complex and Sensitive Situation

While the family maintains that the video was created for online publicity and insists on his innocence, it is important to note that the woman who posted the video also reportedly faced cyber attacks after it went viral. This highlights how social media storms often spiral out of control, harming multiple people in different ways.

Police have registered a case of unnatural death and stated that a detailed investigation is underway. Authorities are examining all aspects of the incident, including the alleged bus incident, the viral content, and the circumstances that may have led to the man’s death. Further legal action, police say, will depend on the findings of the investigation.

Bigger Questions for Society

This tragic episode underscores the double-edged nature of social media. While platforms can empower individuals to speak up against wrongdoing, they can also become tools for instant judgment, public shaming, and irreversible damage—often without due process.

Allegations of harassment must be taken seriously and investigated thoroughly. At the same time, the rush to convict someone in the court of public opinion can have devastating consequences. Mental health, dignity, and the right to a fair investigation are often lost amid viral outrage.

A Call for Responsibility

As investigations continue, this case serves as a sobering reminder of the need for restraint, empathy, and responsibility—both online and offline. Social media users, content creators, and platforms alike must reflect on how quickly narratives are amplified and how deeply they can affect real lives.

In a digital age where a single video can change everything overnight, compassion and caution are no longer optional—they are essential.

Rahil Ahmmed p

6th sem BCA