WE live in times of instant humiliation. In a toxic online setting, civility is a tall order and anyone is fair game. The threat of being disgraced lurks with impunity. A cyber harassment horror has been unfolding since last month in Kasur where 55 men and women were arrested from what the police say was an ‘illegal’ rave party. Their videos were recorded in a local police station and published on social media. Among them was a female influencer who will now grapple with lifelong shame because her video went viral. Although five officers have been suspended for the odious crime, the scandal should jolt the administration, forcing a rapid review of internet security protocols.

The digital sphere is, shockingly, being used by some in law enforcement to not only exploit young and underprivileged people, but also to exhibit their own ‘achievements’ for public adulation. A violation of Article 14 of the Constitution, which stipulates that an individual’s dignity is “inviolable”, the abhorrent practice is rampant in Punjab thanks to the absence of a vigilant online reporting system. The danger then is that perpetrators, despite clear guidelines — the Punjab police rules forbid officers from recording videos that reveal the identity of suspects and under-trials — will continue their hunt unless the government commits to investing in cybersecurity with a cyber-patrolling squad, training for appropriate and prompt response and above all, weeding out the rogue elements in the police force. While an ever-evolving web is a challenge to guard, shaming people online can turn into a life sentence as the presence of such videos haunts victims even after acquittals. The government must shift its focus from internet surveillance to ensuring morally upright LEAs, effective implementation of laws and justice for victims of cybercrime. Unchecked repulsive behaviour triggers remorse, anger and a bullying-victim cycle, thereby producing more offenders. The lack of accountability means that common citizens will continue to suffer.

Published in Dawn, May 30th, 2025