Kerala-based influencer Dr. Soumya Sarin has responded to online criticism regarding her recent visit to Turkiye, clarifying that her trip took place well before the Pahalgam terror attack. Sarin, who has been facing backlash on social media, addressed the controversy in a detailed Facebook post, asserting that her travel plans were unrelated to the ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Social Media Backlash
Following the Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in multiple casualties, Sarin was accused by some users of insensitivity for sharing travel content from Turkiye. Critics alleged that her posts were ill-timed, given India’s military response under Operation Sindoor.
In response, Sarin stated that her visit occurred weeks before the attack, dismissing claims that she was deliberately ignoring national sentiments. She emphasized that travel content creators should not be subjected to political scrutiny over unrelated events.
Sarin’s Statement
In her post, Sarin wrote: “I traveled to Turkiye much before the Pahalgam attack. The timing of my posts is purely coincidental, and I do not endorse any political narratives. Travel is my passion, and I will continue to share my experiences without fear.”
She further criticized the targeted trolling, stating that women influencers often face unfair scrutiny compared to their male counterparts.
Public Reaction
While some users supported Sarin’s stance, others continued to question the responsibility of influencers in addressing national crises. The debate has reignited discussions on social media ethics, with experts urging content creators to be mindful of public sentiment during sensitive periods.
What’s Next?
Despite the controversy, Sarin remains active on social media, continuing to share travel insights. Whether the backlash will impact her brand collaborations or public engagements remains to be seen.
