Women's Panel Condemns Trolling, Stands With Lt Narwal's Wife

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has publicly condemned the social media trolling of Himanshi Narwal, widow of Navy officer Lt Vinay Narwal who was killed in the recent Pahalgam attack. The commission has taken stand for Himanshi Narwal following her emotional appeal for peace, unity and urging that they don't want any hatred against muslims and Kashmiris which sparked outrage online. 

In a statement posted on its X account, the NCW expressed concern over the criticism directed at Himanshi regarding her public statements. "After the death of Lt. Vinay Narwal, the way his wife Himanshi is being criticized on social media in relation to one of her statements is unfortunate," the commission stated. 

The commission acknowledged that the country was "hurt and angry" but urged restraint, stating, "It is not right to troll a woman on the basis of her ideological expression or personal life."

The Commission state that people might disagree with her views but the disagreement should remain within constitutional limits and should be presented through a civilized discussion keeping in mind the personal loss of Lt. Narwal's wife. 

Lt Narwal, just 27 years old, was among the 26 victims killed in Kashmir on April 22. His death triggered nationwide outrage, particularly after reports confirmed he was shot after being asked about his religion. The tragedy has prompted widespread mourning across India.

The attack occurred while Lt Narwal and Himanshi were on their honeymoon, barely a week after their April 16 wedding. The couple had been married for just six days when the terrorist attack shattered their lives. 

On May 1, Himanshi made her first public appearance since her husband's cremation. Speaking at a blood donation camp organized in Lt Narwal's memory, she made a tearful plea for unity rather than expressing anger or blame. "This is what is happening — people going against Muslims and Kashmiris. We do not want this. We want peace and only peace," she said.

While many praised Himanshi's courage, dignity, and grace in the face of unimaginable loss, others responded with hostility. Some anonymous social media accounts labeled her as "anti-national" and a "sympathizer," with some going so far as to question her patriotism.