Tue Jan 13 09:11:57 UTC 2026: # Women’s and Transgender Organizations Condemn Cyberbullying of Telugu Actor Anasuya Bharadwaj

The Story:
In Hyderabad on January 13, 2026, a coalition of women’s and transgender organizations held a press conference to condemn the online harassment and abuse targeting Telugu actor Anasuya Bharadwaj. The groups demanded legal action against those responsible and accountability from media platforms amplifying the attacks. They highlighted the use of deepfakes and media vilification as contributing factors to the ongoing cyberbullying, pointing to a normalization of misogyny in public discourse.

Key Points:

  • The Women’s and Transgender Organisations Joint Action Committee held a press conference at the Somajiguda Press Club in Hyderabad.
  • They condemned the sustained online harassment, abuse using deepfakes, and media vilification of Telugu actor Anasuya Bharadwaj.
  • Comments made by a Telugu actor, identified as Sivaji, about women’s clothing triggered a cycle of trolling, abuse, and threats against Nidhhi Agerwal and Anasuya Bharadwaj.
  • Swetha Varma cited data from the National Crime Records Bureau, noting 4.28 lakh crimes against women in 2021, 4.45 lakh in 2022, and 4.5 lakh in 2023, emphasizing the diversion of public discourse towards policing women’s attire instead of addressing the rise in crimes.
  • Anasuya Bharadwaj, participating virtually, accused sections of the media of distorting her statements and aggravating the abuse against her.
  • The Committee plans to write to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting seeking action against those involved in creating and transmitting content linked to the harassment.

Key Takeaways:

  • Cyberbullying and online harassment remain a significant threat to women in the public eye in India.
  • The issue extends beyond individual comments and includes the amplification of harmful rhetoric by media platforms.
  • There’s a growing concern regarding the normalization of misogyny in public discourse, fueled by online debates and television channels.
  • The response emphasizes the need for legal accountability for both the originators and the spreaders of abusive content.
  • The incident highlights the ongoing tension between individual freedom of expression, cultural norms, and the right to a life of dignity and without fear for women.

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