Television actress Reem Shaikh, who was seen in some of the biggest Hindi television shows, has come forward and revealed the horrific internet hate she was subjected to for her decision to remain silent on the Air India Ahmedabad plane crash. In an exclusive interview, Reem recounted how her refusal to speak about the horrific crash sparked an avalanche of hate messages, trolling, and inappropriate comments accusing her of lacking patriotism.
Social media influencer and fan favourite Reem averred that she was trolled simply because she did not post or comment about the Air India bombing at once. She was called a “deshdrohi” (traitor) by some users and even advised, “Isko Pakistan bhejo” (send her to Pakistan). The young actress disclosed that this sudden influx of bullying and negativity affected her psychologically.
I did not know what to do with it. Just because I did not tweet or post a story about the accident does not mean that I care,” she replied.
The actress clarified that not all personal responses should be shared and that people grieve or experience tragedy in different ways. She added that social media cannot be the sole benchmark of someone’s empathy or patriotism. Reem also drew attention to the poisonous expectation put on public personalities to always respond or comment, even if they are not in the right headspace to do so.
“Just because I’m a celebrity, it doesn’t mean that I have to comment on everything straight away,” she said. “At times, silence is a result of respect or shock, not ignorance.”
The ordeal has encouraged Reem to comment on the increasing intolerance and cancel culture in social media platforms, where individuals are quick to rant and berate without knowing the facts. She called upon users and followers to be more empathetic and understanding, particularly during times of national crisis.
Reem’s honest disclosure reveals a greater problem that most celebrities experience, the expectation to perform empathy on social media, and the backlash that will ensue if they fail to do so. Her account reminds us that true sensitivity is never in posts and hashtags, but in understanding, compassion, and respecting others’ space to heal in their own pace.
