Campus Times | Lucknow

Tension spilled onto the streets in Lucknow after a controversial viral video triggered outrage among differently-abled students, leading to a dramatic road blockade and clashes with police.

The protest erupted near the police outpost on Mohan Road, where a group of students from Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University staged a demonstration on Monday evening. The agitation quickly escalated into a traffic standstill stretching nearly four kilometres, disrupting normal movement in the area.

What sparked the protest?

At the heart of the controversy is a viral video allegedly showing some students pretending to be disabled to create social media content. Protesters claimed that the individuals involved were not actually differently-abled, calling the act “insensitive” and “deeply disrespectful” to the community.

Angry students accused the accused of mocking real struggles by mimicking visual and physical disabilities in staged clips recorded on campus ramps and shared online.

Streets turn into protest ground

As anger mounted, demonstrators blocked the service road near the police post, raising slogans and demanding strict action. The situation grew tense, with heated arguments breaking out between students and police officials trying to clear the road.

Demand for strict action

Student representatives submitted a formal complaint, urging authorities to register an FIR and take stringent legal action against those responsible. They argued that such acts not only hurt sentiments but may also violate provisions related to the rights of persons with disabilities.

Administration responds

Police officials confirmed that a complaint has been registered and an investigation is underway. University authorities have also assured that appropriate disciplinary action will be taken if the blame are proven.

The incident has reignited a larger debate on social media ethics and sensitivity, especially when content creation crosses into mockery of vulnerable communities. What started as a viral video has now turned into a serious law-and-order issue—highlighting how quickly digital actions can spill into