Acid in the Inbox: How Legal System Ignore the Severity of Digital Death and Rape Threats

Abstract

This article looks into the growing crisis of online gender-based violence in India, sparked by the recent trolling of social media influencer Apoorva Mukhija. While digital spaces were once seen as platforms for free expression and connection, they are increasingly being misused to target, harass, and silence women. From rape threats and acid attack warnings to coordinated trolling campaigns, the abuse is not just alarming—it’s deeply personal and psychologically damaging. Through real-life case studies and a closer look at India’s legal framework, including the Information Technology Act, 2000 and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, the article highlights how current laws fall short in addressing the full extent of digital abuse. It also reviews efforts under the Cyber Crime Prevention against Women and Children (CCPWC) Scheme, while pointing out gaps in enforcement and victim support. The article argues for urgent legal reforms, stronger accountability from social media platforms, and better
training for law enforcement. It emphasizes the need for collective responsibility—by lawmakers, tech companies, and civil society—to make the internet a safer space for everyone, especially women and marginalized groups.