In the wake of a tragic incident involving the rape and murder of a female trainee doctor at Kolkata’s R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, social media has seen a surge of content related to the case. This case has spurred nationwide outrage and protests from doctors and public demanding justice. However, the responses from some social media content creators have sparked a significant debate about the ethical boundaries of using sensitive events as content for engagement.
The incident and initial reactions
The brutal attack on the young doctor has drawn widespread attention and condemnation. The public outcry has been amplified by protests and demands for justice, reflecting the gravity of the situation. However, the handling of this tragic event by certain influencers has raised serious concerns.
Dhruv Rathee, a prominent YouTuber and social media influencer, found himself in controversy after revealing the name of the victim in a post on X (formerly Twitter). The revelation faced backlash for potentially compromising the victim’s privacy and dignity. Following the criticism, Rathee removed the post and deleted another related post that had previously used the hashtag ‘Justice For Nirbhaya 2’ to draw parallels with the earlier Nirbhaya case.
Another incident involved Sarah Saroh, a beauty and lifestyle influencer, who created a ‘Get Ready With Me’ video. In the voiceover, Saroh narrated the details of the tragic case, juxtaposing a cheerful presentation with a grim narrative. The video quickly faced backlash for its insensitivity, leading Saroh to remove the content and issue an apology on Instagram.
These instances reflect a troubling trend where influencers use sensitive cases as fodder for content creation, aiming to boost engagement or gain followers. While raising awareness about important issues is undoubtedly valuable, there is a delicate balance to be maintained to avoid appearing exploitative.
The fine line between advocacy and exploitation
The role of influencers in advocating for social justice and raising awareness cannot be understated. Many use their platforms to highlight critical issues and mobilize public opinion. However, when influencers cross the line into exploitation, it can undermine their credibility and cause additional harm.
Several micro-influencers have also been noted for capitalizing on this case. They have engaged in activities ranging from resharing posts to creating content with poetry, storytelling, and mock videos. While the intent may be to engage and inform, the execution in some cases appears to prioritise personal gain over genuine advocacy.
Navigating the ethical boundaries of content creation in the wake of a tragedy requires sensitivity and respect. Influencers must consider the following guidelines to avoid crossing into insensitivity:
Respect for privacy: Avoid disclosing personal details or identities of victims that can lead to further harm or invasion of privacy.
Sensitivity in presentation: Ensure that content related to tragic events is handled with the appropriate tone and context, avoiding any form of sensationalism.
Genuine advocacy: Focus on providing constructive content that supports the cause without turning it into a platform for self-promotion.
Transparency and accountability: Be willing to address concerns and feedback from the community, and take responsibility for any lapses in sensitivity.
The current discourse highlights a critical issue in the economy of social media content creation. While influencers have the power to amplify voices and drive change, it is essential for them to exercise this power responsibly. The thin line between raising awareness and exploiting sensitive issues is one that requires careful navigation. As society continues to grapple with the implications of digital engagement, it is imperative for content creators to reflect on the impact of their actions and strive for ethical practices that respect both the victims and the broader audience.