Influencer Amulya Rattan responds to backlash over ‘no civic sense’ video

New Delhi: Influencer Amulya Rattan has responded to criticism following the circulation of a viral video in which she was heard accusing a passerby of having “zero civic sense” while recording content in a public space.

The short clip, widely shared across social media platforms, prompted trolling, parody videos and criticism, with several users describing her reaction as entitled and insensitive. The backlash focused on a moment in which Rattan appeared visibly irritated as a man walked past her during filming, leading to her remark, “People have no civic sense, zero.”

After several days of sustained online attention, Rattan posted a clarification video on Instagram, addressing the controversy and offering her account of the incident.

In the video, she said, “Hi guys, one of my videos is being circulated on the internet and I think it’s been taken out of context. So let me give you my side of the story of what exactly happened that day.”

She explained that she was conscious of filming in a public setting, adding, “I was recording my basic simple outfit check video, and I was well aware that I was in a public space, and I changed my spot multiple times so that I didn’t interrupt anyone and no one gets disturbed.”

Rattan also described feeling uncomfortable prior to the moment captured in the viral clip. “When I recorded this video, a group of uncles were staring at me. I felt uncomfortable and changed my location again,” she said.

Clarifying the sequence of events, she stated that the clip circulating online was not her first attempt at filming. “Then, when I started recording, someone passed from in front of me, and then it was a Snapchat story of 24 hours. So I abandoned it,” she said, adding that the third recording is the one currently circulating online.

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Addressing the criticism, Rattan acknowledged her reaction. “My choice of words could have been better, and I generally take that as a learning,” she said. “I never expected such a small moment to travel as far as it did and turn into such a large conversation.”

She also expressed appreciation for constructive feedback, stating, “I’m thankful for all the people who have corrected me respectfully and grateful for all the people who supported me through this.”

At the same time, she spoke out against the abuse she received following the incident. “What I won’t allow is the kind of abuse that has followed after that. Criticism is fine. Trolls are also part of the internet. I get it,” she said.

Referring to her work as a content creator, Rattan added, “I worked really hard to build my platform and I’m still learning every day.”

While acknowledging responsibility for her tone, she drew a distinction between criticism and harassment. “I’m taking accountability for my tone, but I’m also setting a boundary that bullying and defamatory comments are not okay,” she said.

She concluded the video by saying, “I’m moving on from this, and I hope we all learn to be a little more mindful on both sides. And I’m really sorry again to see sentiments get hurt.”

The clarification video triggered further discussion in the comments section, with reactions remaining mixed. Some users supported her response, while others questioned its sincerity, with remarks such as, “Nice script. A simple apology would suffice,” and “ChatGPT coded apology, she’s asking for sympathy.”

As online debate continued, the episode highlighted broader questions around content creation in public spaces, personal responsibility and the intensity of public response to viral moments on social media.