Thiruvananthapuram: Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) MLA Fathima Thahiliya issued a stern warning on Tuesday to online media channels regarding invasive, "paparazzi-style" videography. The first-time legislator from Perambra stated that unauthorised filming and privacy violations targeting her could be legally classified as stalking and would face strict judicial consequences.

In a social media statement, Thahiliya clarified that while attending public gatherings is a core part of her duty as a public representative, there is a troubling increase in individuals entering events under the guise of media personnel without proper identification or credentials.

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"Organisers usually appoint official photographers and videographers for events. However, in some situations, people enter programmes claiming to be media personnel based solely on social media posters, without any identification marks," the MLA observed, noting that it has become incredibly difficult for event hosts to distinguish between official media and unauthorised individuals.

 

Misrepresentation of private moments for profit

The IUML leader alleged that certain content creators deliberately exploit public settings to secretly record personal conversations, natural interactions and private moments. She stated that these clips are later edited or presented in a distorted manner to misinform the public.

"Such actions constitute a serious violation of privacy," Thahiliya stated. She strongly criticised the practice of sensationalising ordinary, everyday interactions with misleading captions designed to provoke negative public reactions and monetise content for online profit.

Furthermore, the MLA firmly rejected online speculation regarding her media presence, stating, "There is absolutely no basis for claims that these channels are linked to my PR work."

 

‘Public spaces do not negate privacy rights’

Emphasising that public figures and citizens retain their right to privacy even in open venues, Thahiliya stated that barging into personal circles with mobile phones without a professional code of conduct is unacceptable. "This is not merely an intrusion into my privacy, but also into the privacy of those who are with me," she stated, adding that actions aimed at humiliation or deliberate provocation cannot be justified under the banner of journalism.

The MLA warned that if these invasive practices persist, they will be treated as clear instances of stalking and privacy infringement, prompting formal legal complaints.

 

Growing backlash against digital paparazzi

Thahiliya’s remarks come amid widespread public outrage over the intrusive behaviour of certain online channels during the recent funeral of National Award-winning Malayalam actor Salim Kumar. Broadcast footage showing the late actor's son, Chandu, forcing back online media personnel who pushed through grieving crowds to capture close-up shots had recently gone viral, sparking intense debate.

Addressing the broader issue, Chief Minister V D Satheesan also criticised the conduct of unregulated online channels during the incident. The Chief Minister stated that the problem cannot be entirely resolved through state legislation alone, urging digital media platforms to exercise greater ethical responsibility and self-regulation.

PTI