NEW DELHI: Popular YouTuber and influencer Payal Dhare broke silence over a leaked MSS claiming to be hers, circulating on social media. The private video spread like wildfire on social media, while many started associating the women in the video with Payal. Despite the veracity of the video in question, rumours spread about the video associated with Payal’s name.
Payal Dhare:
I never expected to have to speak publicly about something so personal and distressing.
Over the past few days, content has been circulated online that falsely associates my name and image with a video currently being shared on digital platforms. I want to state this clearly and without ambiguity: the individual depicted in that video is not me, and it has no connection to my life, my choices, or my identity.
What has been most painful is not only the misrepresentation itself, but the speed and ease with which a person’s dignity can be undermined in the digital space. These actions have consequences far beyond the screen, affecting real people, real families, and real lives.
I have always believed in maintaining silence in the face of negativity. However, this situation demands clarity and a voice-not just for myself, but for the many women who are subjected to similar forms of online abuse and character attacks. This is not harmless content; it is deeply hurtful and dehumanising.
I respectfully urge the public and members of the media to refrain from sharing, reproducing, or speculating about this material in any form. Appropriate legal steps are being taken to address the misuse of my name and likeness, and to ensure accountability in accordance with the law.
I am deeply grateful to those who have reached out with support, empathy, and understanding during this difficult time. Your kindness and trust have given me strength when I needed it most.
Many celebrities and influencers came in support of Payal after she decided to respond to the issue. Payal has 4.51 million subscribers on YouTube and 4.3 million followers on Instagram and was one of the few influencers who had the chance to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally.
