The new face of moral vigilantism in Punjab

THE murder of social media influencer Kanchan Kumari, known as Kamal Kaur Bhabhi, in Bathinda, is a grim reminder of how moral vigilantism — once limited to online trolling — has now crossed into violent criminality. The alleged mastermind, Amritpal Singh Mehron, reportedly heads a radical group called Qaum De Rakhe and has justified the killing by branding the victim’s content as “immoral.” His escape to the UAE and the release of a video justifying the murder shows a chilling level of premeditation. This case is not an isolated aberration. It reflects a disturbing trend of policing women’s expression through violence and threats. In Bengaluru, a woman influencer recently received acid attack threats simply for her attire. The man was swiftly fired by his employer after his message went viral and triggered public outrage. In another alarming incident, Apoorva Mukhija, a digital creator who appeared on a popular YouTube show, was subjected to online rape and death threats. The National Commission for Women intervened, demanding strict action.

The pattern is clear. Social media influencers, especially women, are increasingly being targeted under the guise of upholding “cultural values.” But who defines these values? And who gave vigilantes the authority to enforce them? The Punjab Women’s Commission has rightly denounced such acts, but official condemnation is not enough. Law enforcement agencies must treat such cases as ideologically driven crimes that threaten the social fabric. Social media platforms also bear responsibility; they must act faster in taking down hate content and tracking coordinated abuse campaigns.

Freedom of expression does not mean immunity from criticism. But criticism cannot devolve into intimidation, threats or murder. The state must send a strong message: digital vigilantism, especially when it morphs into physical violence, will not be tolerated.

Editorials