Finfluencer Abhishek Kar is under fire for comments made in a YouTube podcast, which the Assam government has described as “spreading misinformation” about the state’s history and traditions. On Friday, the Assam government directed its police department to take legal action against Kar following outrage over his remarks about Mayong village, a region associated with mysticism and folk medicine.
The Controversial Podcast Remarks
The controversy erupted after a clip from the YouTube channel “Riya Upreti” went viral on social media platforms in Assam. In the clip, Kar claimed that women in Mayong village possess mystical powers. He alleged that they could turn people into animals, revert them to human form at night, and engage in tantric rituals.
These comments were deemed offensive and misleading by many, as the Mayong region in Central Assam, while historically linked to mysticism, is primarily known for its folk medicine practices and cultural heritage.
Government’s Swift Response
The Office of the Chief Minister of Assam flagged the video on social media, calling for immediate action. “A video from a YouTube channel, named Riya Upreti, is in circulation where an individual named Abhishek Kar is seen making unacceptable comments on Assam’s history and traditions. Appropriate action may be initiated against the said individual for spreading misinformation,” the Chief Minister’s Office posted on X, tagging the Assam Police.
Following this, Assam Police chief G P Singh confirmed that the state’s Crime Investigation Department (CID) has been tasked with taking lawful action against Kar.
Mysticism And Mayong’s Legacy
Mayong, located in the Morigaon district of Assam, has long been associated with mysticism and ‘magic.’ However, these practices are largely centered on folk medicine and traditional healing methods rather than the fantastical claims made in the podcast.
The region’s rich cultural heritage includes centuries-old tales of healers and herbalists who used natural remedies and incantations to treat ailments. While Mayong has been shrouded in mystery, locals and scholars emphasize that its traditions are rooted in science and folklore rather than superstition.
Abhishek Kar: The Finfluencer Under Spotlight
Abhishek Kar is a well-known financial influencer, or “finfluencer,” with a massive following on social media. His YouTube channel, where he shares advice on stock market trading, finance, and business, boasts 1.86 million subscribers, while his Instagram account has 2.9 million followers.
Despite his success in the financial domain, this controversy has thrust him into an entirely different spotlight. The backlash has raised questions about the responsibility influencers have when commenting on topics outside their expertise.
Legal And Social Repercussions
The Assam government’s move to initiate legal action underscores its zero-tolerance stance on misinformation, especially when it concerns the state’s cultural heritage. The directive from the Chief Minister’s Office highlights the growing importance of curbing the spread of false narratives, particularly in the digital age.
Local sentiments have also played a significant role in amplifying the controversy. Social media platforms in Assam have been flooded with calls for accountability, with many users expressing outrage over Kar’s remarks.
Role Of Influencers In Shaping Perceptions
This incident brings to light the increasing influence of social media personalities and their ability to shape public perception. With millions of followers, influencers like Abhishek Kar wield significant power in disseminating information.
However, this also places a greater responsibility on them to ensure the accuracy and sensitivity of their statements, particularly when discussing cultural or historical topics. Misinformation, whether intentional or not, can have far-reaching consequences, as demonstrated in this case.
A Lesson In Cultural Sensitivity
The backlash against Kar’s comments serves as a reminder of the need for cultural sensitivity in public discourse. Mayong’s legacy, though intertwined with mysticism, is a source of pride for the region and its people. Misrepresenting such traditions not only offends local sentiments but also perpetuates stereotypes that undermine the state’s rich cultural tapestry.
What Lies Ahead?
As Assam’s CID investigates the matter, the focus remains on addressing the larger issue of misinformation in the digital era. The controversy has sparked a broader conversation about the ethical responsibilities of influencers and the role of government in regulating online content.
While the outcome of the legal proceedings against Kar remains to be seen, the incident underscores the need for accountability in a world where a single clip can ignite widespread debate.