Social media takes a stand against trolls targeting UP board topper's facial hair
PTC News Desk: Prachi Nigam, a bright teenager hailing from Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh, achieved a remarkable feat by securing the top rank in the Class 10 board exams conducted by the UP Board. With an outstanding score of 98.5 percent, her academic prowess should have been the talk of the town.
However, the limelight quickly shifted to a darker side of social media as Prachi became the target of vicious trolling regarding her facial hair.
The online onslaught was relentless, with trolls launching derogatory comments and even resorting to distasteful manipulation of Prachi's photos to fit narrow beauty standards. The attacks were not only cruel but also deeply sexist, reflecting the toxic underbelly of social media where individuals are often subjected to ruthless scrutiny based on their appearance.
I congratulate #PrachiNigam for topping the UP Board High School exams
It's sad to learn that people are trolling her. #PCOS is a debilitating condition, not only physically, but socially and mentally.
Very proud that she has achieved this success despite her health issues pic.twitter.com/B0lw68NrzJ — Priyanka Matanhelia (Ph.D) (@SavvyPriya) April 21, 2024
Yet, amidst the negativity, there arose a powerful counter-narrative. Social media platforms became battlegrounds where users rallied behind Prachi, vehemently condemning the trolls and standing up against the unrealistic beauty ideals imposed on young girls. Instead of allowing the trolls to dictate the conversation, supporters flooded the internet with messages of solidarity and admiration for Prachi's academic achievements, refusing to let her accomplishments be overshadowed by superficial judgments.
असली सुंदरता मन की होती है भी उन झूठों और बकवासों में से है जिसका ये "महान" संस्कृति गुण गाती है!
We are a trauma-inducing society, the recent trolling of UP Board topper is proof enough that the entire narrative about "being a good/intelligent person" is false #PrachiNigam — Pooja Priyamvada (She/Her) (@SoulVersified) April 22, 2024
The incident not only highlighted the vulnerability of individuals, especially young women, to cyberbullying and body shaming but also showcased the potential of social media as a force for positive change. Prachi Nigam's story served as a rallying point for advocates of body positivity and online civility, reminding everyone of the importance of empathy and respect in the digital realm.
As the uproar gained momentum, it underscored the urgent need for stricter measures to curb online harassment and foster a safer, more inclusive online environment. While Prachi Nigam emerged victorious in her academic endeavors, her resilience in the face of adversity also made her a symbol of resilience and hope for countless others navigating the treacherous waters of social media.
The trollers don't even think twice what they're trolling and who they're trolling. It's pathetic. I wish she didn't read those comments ever, it may harm her confidence forever.
Hormonal imbalance can occur to anyone anytime. We must refrain from mocking it. #PrachiNigam https://t.co/INsZnS32Jb — Adesh Goyal ???????? (@adeshgoyal26) April 21, 2024
Who is Prachi Nigam?
Meet Prachi Nigam, a student at Sita Bal Vidya Mandir Inter College in Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh, who recently made headlines by clinching the top spot in the UP Board Class 10 exams with a remarkable score of 591 out of 600 marks. Expressing a blend of surprise and elation, she remarked, "I never imagined I would secure the top position. While I diligently focused on my studies, being the topper was beyond my expectations. I am proud of the effort I put in."
With aspirations to pursue a career in engineering, Prachi aims to crack the IIT-JEE entrance exam. She attributes her success not only to her dedication but also underscores the significance of regular class attendance in her academic journey.
Prachi Nigam's narrative transcends mere academic excellence; it symbolizes her resilience in the face of adversity. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating academic accomplishments while challenging the societal pressures that impose unrealistic beauty standards on young women.
- With inputs from agencies
