In a recent tweet, journalist Shiv Aroor called out individuals he described as “fake crusaders,” who, according to him, were silent during significant events affecting farmers and journalists but have now surfaced to advocate for comedian Kunal Kamra. Aroor’s commentary highlights a perceived inconsistency in activism, particularly concerning social justice and freedom of expression in India.

### Context of the Tweet

The tweet references two specific incidents that have drawn public attention and scrutiny. The first involves the Punjab Police’s aggressive actions against farmers, which included physical assaults and the destruction of property. This incident is part of a broader narrative of farmer protests in India, where farmers have been fighting for their rights and against policies they believe threaten their livelihoods.

The second incident mentioned is the arrest of a journalist in Telangana for reporting on a political figure, Revanth Reddy. This situation raises alarms about press freedom and the treatment of journalists in India, especially when reporting on sensitive political matters.

### Kunal Kamra’s Controversy

Kunal Kamra, a well-known stand-up comedian, has often been at the center of controversy due to his politically charged humor and outspoken views, particularly against the Indian government and its policies. His supporters argue that he is a voice for free speech, while critics accuse him of crossing the line into inappropriate or disrespectful territory.

Aroor’s mention of Kamra in the tweet implies that the outcry for his support is disproportionate compared to the silence surrounding the plight of farmers and journalists. This sentiment reflects a broader discourse on the priorities of activists and the public’s response to various social issues.

### The Role of Social Media

Social media platforms like Twitter play a crucial role in shaping public opinion and facilitating discourse on significant social issues. Aroor’s tweet illustrates how these platforms can amplify voices, whether in support of or against particular figures. The use of humor and sarcasm in his tweet, as indicated by the laughing and clown emojis, serves to underscore his criticism of those who, in his view, selectively engage in activism.

### Activism and Selective Outrage

Aroor’s tweet raises important questions about selective outrage in activism. Many individuals and groups mobilize in response to specific incidents while remaining silent on others that may be equally or more pressing. This phenomenon can lead to a perception of hypocrisy, whereby certain causes receive more attention based on public interest, media coverage, or the social status of the individuals involved.

The contrast between the plight of farmers and the situation surrounding Kunal Kamra illustrates the complexities of modern activism. While Kamra’s case may attract a different kind of support due to his celebrity status, the struggles of marginalized groups, such as farmers and journalists, often go unnoticed or unaddressed.

### The Importance of Consistent Advocacy

For effective activism, consistency is key. Advocates for social justice should strive to address a wide range of issues, ensuring that the voices of those who are often marginalized are heard. While it is essential to support individuals facing challenges, like Kamra, it is equally vital to recognize and advocate for systemic issues affecting larger groups, such as farmers and journalists.

### Conclusion

Shiv Aroor’s tweet serves as a poignant reminder of the responsibilities that come with advocacy and the importance of amplifying voices across the spectrum of social justice issues. As India continues to grapple with complex challenges related to farmers’ rights, press freedom, and free speech, it is crucial for individuals and activists to engage consistently and thoughtfully. By doing so, they can contribute to a more equitable and just society that values all voices, regardless of their social standing or celebrity status.

In the age of social media, where opinions can be shared widely and quickly, it is incumbent upon each of us to reflect on the causes we choose to support and advocate for a more inclusive dialogue that encompasses the diverse experiences and struggles of all individuals in society.

Fake crusaders who were hiding under a rock when farmers were getting thrashed/bulldozed by Punjab Police last week & a journo was arrested in Telangana for a story on Revanth, have emerged from hiding to fight for Kunal Kamra.

My video last week. pic.twitter.com/XWyJ8tv699

— Shiv Aroor (@ShivAroor) March 24, 2025

Fake Crusaders Who Were Hiding Under a Rock When Farmers Were Getting Thrashed/Bulldozed by Punjab Police Last Week

It’s quite intriguing to see how quickly the narrative can shift in the world of social media. Just last week, we witnessed the Punjab Police taking aggressive action against farmers, who were simply trying to voice their concerns. Amid this turmoil, a journalist was arrested in Telangana for reporting on Revanth, a political figure who has stirred up quite the conversation. Yet, in a bizarre twist of fate, so-called “fake crusaders” seemed to be nowhere in sight during these crucial moments. Instead, they’ve emerged from their hiding spots to rally around comedian Kunal Kamra, who has found himself in his own share of controversies. This situation begs the question: what drives the selective outrage we often see online?

Farmers’ Struggles and Police Brutality

The plight of farmers in Punjab has been a long-standing issue, marked by protests and demands for better treatment and rights. When the police resorted to violence by bulldozing their protests and physically thrashing demonstrators, it was a stark reminder of how the powerful often suppress the voices of the vulnerable. Many were quick to post on social media, but the reaction from those who typically champion social justice was noticeably muted at that moment. Instead of rallying behind the farmers, these individuals seemed to be hiding under a rock, possibly more concerned about their social media presence than real-world issues.

A Journalist Arrested in Telangana for Reporting on Revanth

Simultaneously, the arrest of a journalist in Telangana for covering a story about Revanth was another instance that raised eyebrows. It’s alarming when journalists face repercussions for doing their jobs, especially in a democratic society. The implications for press freedom are severe, and yet, the outcry was minimal. It’s as if the urgency of these events has a shelf life, and when it expires, so does the outrage. The question remains: Why does it take a comedian’s controversy to spark a wave of support that was absent when it truly mattered?

Emergence of Fake Crusaders

Now, let’s talk about these so-called “fake crusaders.” They have a knack for popping up at the most convenient times, and their actions often seem more performative than genuine. Just as Kunal Kamra’s situation began to trend, these individuals came out in droves to defend him, laughing off the serious issues that had previously dominated the conversation. This sudden flip to focus on a comedian’s plight while ignoring the far graver issues faced by farmers and journalists raises serious questions about their authenticity. Are they truly advocates for justice, or are they merely seeking to boost their online personas?

The Fight for Kunal Kamra

Kunal Kamra’s comedy often treads into the politically charged territory that ruffles feathers. His criticism of government policies and figures has made him a polarizing figure in Indian comedy. When he faces backlash, many of his supporters rally around him, claiming that this is a fight for free speech. While the defense of free speech is crucial, it’s important to recognize that the same energy should be directed towards defending those who face real dangers for speaking out—like farmers and journalists. The inconsistency in outrage makes one wonder if the fight is about principle or simply the appeal of celebrity.

Social Media Dynamics and Selective Outrage

Social media plays a significant role in shaping public opinion, and it’s fascinating how quickly trends can change. When a hot topic arises, everyone seems to have an opinion, but once that topic fades from the spotlight, so does their concern. This selective outrage can be detrimental, as it oversimplifies complex issues and reduces them to mere trending topics. The farmers’ struggle and the arrest of a journalist should not be overshadowed by the controversies surrounding a comedian, yet that’s exactly what has happened. It’s a reminder that our attention can be fleeting, and that we need to remain vigilant in our support for all forms of injustice.

Addressing the Real Issues

As we discuss the emergence of these fake crusaders and their selective outrage, it’s essential to bring the focus back to the real issues at hand. The farmers in Punjab deserve our attention and support as they fight for their rights against oppressive forces. Similarly, the journalist arrested in Telangana should not be forgotten, as their work is fundamental to a functioning democracy. If we truly care about these issues, we need to ensure that our advocacy doesn’t wane when the spotlight shifts.

Lessons in Advocacy

The current situation serves as a reminder that genuine advocacy requires consistency. It’s not enough to support causes only when they’re trending or when they involve figures who resonate with us on a personal level. If we want to create meaningful change, we must be willing to stand up for those who are marginalized, regardless of the popular sentiment at the time. This means engaging in conversations about the farmers’ situation and the implications of press freedom, rather than only focusing on the more glamorous controversies surrounding public figures.

Conclusion: The Need for Genuine Support

Ultimately, the scenario where fake crusaders come out of hiding to defend Kunal Kamra while ignoring the plight of farmers and journalists highlights a significant gap in societal awareness and responsibility. It serves as a wake-up call for all of us to be more discerning about where we place our support and how we engage with social issues. By recognizing the real struggles and advocating for justice consistently, we can foster a more equitable society that values all voices, not just those that are popular or entertaining.

As we navigate these complex narratives, let’s strive to be the allies that are needed in times of real crisis, rather than just spectators in the theater of outrage.