Student Targeted Over Remarks About Modi in India Unable to Leave Home

Months after being targeted over an 11-second video in which she used harsh and crude language about Prime Minister Narendra Modi during education reform protests in Delhi, a 15-year-old student named R is living confined to her home due to security concerns and death threats.

An 11-second recorded video of a 15-year-old student named R, who participated in education reform protests held at the Jantar Mantar area in Delhi prior to July 24, sparked widespread public reaction. While a police investigation was launched against the student, who was seen using severe and crude expressions toward Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the footage, a heavy wave of abuse including rape and death threats was unleashed online on the internet.

Following the events, R and her single mother, who released an apology video, were forced to leave their home due to mounting pressure. Having had to change multiple apartments with all their savings depleted, the young girl is unable to continue her schooling and continues to live in hiding due to ongoing security concerns.