In the age of digital media, the race for views likes, and shares has driven some social media influencers to engage in increasingly hazardous and irresponsible behaviour. The recent incident in Jhansi, where two men sprayed foam on the face of an elderly cyclist, is a stark reminder of the potential harm these so-called “pranks” can cause. This incident, involving YouTuber Vinay Yadav, highlights a disturbing trend where the quest for ratings and revenue overshadows basic human decency and safety.
Social media platforms reward content that garners high engagement. For influencers, this often translates to a relentless pursuit of virality, where the boundaries of acceptable behaviour are continually pushed. Pranks, which can range from harmless jokes to dangerous stunts, are a popular genre because they are easily shareable and can quickly amass views. However, the line between a harmless prank and a harmful act is thin and often crossed.
Pranks that involve unsuspecting victims can lead to severe physical and psychological harm. In the case of the elderly cyclist in Jhansi, the act of spraying foam not only caused immediate distress but also posed a risk of injury. Such actions can trigger trauma, anxiety, and a loss of trust in the community. Moreover, when these pranks are shared online, the humiliation and distress of the victims are amplified, leading to long-lasting emotional scars.
The ethical implications of these pranks are profound. Influencers like Vinay Yadav, who repeatedly engage in such behaviour, prioritize their online fame and revenue over the well-being of others. This raises critical questions about the responsibility of content creators and the platforms that host their content. While social media platforms have guidelines against harmful content, enforcement is often lax, allowing dangerous pranks to proliferate.
Social media companies must take a more proactive stance in monitoring and regulating content. Algorithms that prioritize engagement should be adjusted to de-emphasize harmful pranks. Additionally, there should be stricter penalties for content creators who repeatedly violate community guidelines. By doing so, platforms can help create a safer online environment where creativity does not come at the expense of others’ safety.
The incident in Jhansi is a wake-up call for both content creators and social media platforms. Influencers must recognize the impact of their actions and prioritize ethical behaviour over fleeting online fame. Social media platforms, on the other hand, must enforce stricter regulations to prevent the spread of harmful content. Only by working together can we ensure that the digital space remains a place of creativity and connection, rather than one of harm and exploitation.