A teenager who allegedly used abusive language against Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a protest over alleged NEET irregularities at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar has issued a public apology, saying she was “only 15” and had been influenced by people around her.
In a video circulated on Friday, the girl, identified in several reports as Ruchika Singh, folded her hands and expressed regret, calling it her “first and last mistake”.
The apology came hours after Prime Minister Modi released a video message urging people to forgive the students involved and guide them rather than seek harsh punishment.
Delhi Police are continuing their investigation after a Zero FIR, initially registered in Noida, was transferred to the Parliament Street Police Station in Delhi because the alleged offence took place in the national capital.
While the authenticity of the apology video has not been independently verified by several media organisations, it has drawn widespread attention amid an ongoing political debate over the incident.
Apology Video Surfaces Amid Police Probe
In the video, the teenager says she had gone to Connaught Place with friends and happened upon the protest, where she heard others raising abusive slogans against the Prime Minister.
She claimed she was influenced by the atmosphere and repeated similar remarks without considering the consequences. “I am only 15 years old… Whatever I did was not worthy of forgiveness,” she said, adding that she was deeply ashamed and apologised to the Prime Minister, the country and everyone affected. She also maintained that she had not uploaded the original clip that later circulated online.
Earlier, a complaint filed in Noida led to a Zero FIR under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita relating to intentional insult, public mischief and defamation, before the case was transferred to Delhi Police.
Prime Minister Modi, while describing the abusive remarks directed at him and his late mother as deeply hurtful, said that “mistakes happen at a young age” and appealed for compassion, urging society to help young people learn rather than push them into prolonged legal battles.
How The Controversy Unfolded
The controversy stems from a protest organised at Jantar Mantar over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination process, where videos showing participants allegedly making abusive remarks against the Prime Minister began circulating online.
The incident prompted legal complaints and political reactions, with police initiating an investigation. The Prime Minister’s appeal for forgiveness has been welcomed by some as a conciliatory gesture, while opposition leaders questioned the broader handling of the controversy.
Meanwhile, organisers of the protest have argued that criminal proceedings over speech should be carefully examined, adding another dimension to the public debate around freedom of expression, accountability and the limits of protest. Authorities have not announced any conclusion to the investigation, which remains ongoing.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Public discourse becomes stronger when disagreement is expressed with dignity and respect. Abuse and personal attacks can deepen divisions, while criminal proceedings involving young people also demand careful consideration, especially when there is an opportunity for reflection, accountability and learning.
At the same time, peaceful protest remains an essential democratic right, and those participating must recognise the responsibility that comes with exercising that freedom.
Encouraging dialogue, empathy and civic education can help build a society where differences are addressed through reason rather than hostility. How can we create spaces where young people feel empowered to express dissent responsibly while also learning the importance of respectful public discourse?
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