Social media platforms provide a space for people to showcase their talents and express themselves, including those with disabilities, who can use these platforms to amplify their voices. Unfortunately, this visibility also exposes them to online harassment and trolling. Instagram user Shray Rai Tiwari recently highlighted an incident of such online abuse in a video, revealing his actions after encountering a man mocking a differently-abled singer.
In his video, Tiwari explained, “This video is slightly different from the content I generally post. I saw a video of a guy roasting or trolling another guy. The difference is that this kid has special needs. I was very disappointed. Everyone tried to tell this guy to take the video off, but in the business of views, likes, and shares, he is milking it.”
Tiwari went on to share that he reached out to the singer, Anurag Rawat, to offer support and let him know that he is not alone. “He is disturbed, but he is brave,” Tiwari noted.
He concluded his video by encouraging viewers to visit Rawat’s profile and send a heart emoji in his direct messages to show appreciation and offer support against the trolling.
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The video has garnered nearly 200,000 views and around 11,000 likes since being posted. Responses from Instagram users varied, with many expressing support and admiration for Tiwari’s actions.
Here’s how Instagram users reacted to the video:
“Well done, bro. I had seen Anurag’s profile before and was amazed to see his positive spirit and enthusiasm. Instagram is becoming an absolute hellhole for putting people down.
But this is what we need: to encourage and support,” one user commented.
Another added, “Well done, bro. Love to Anurag.”
A third person wrote, “Beautiful. We need more of this.”
A fourth user stated, “We need more people like you.” Many others responded with heart emojis.