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Journalism of Courage
For years, Connaught Place has been the unofficial backdrop for countless social media clips. From casual vox pops to street interviews, the iconic Delhi spot has practically become an open studio for YouTubers and influencers. But for a creator, a routine day of filming there recently spiraled into a confrontation that’s now gone viral.
Delhi-based influencer Sonali Singh was in the middle of recording an Instagram interview when, according to her, a police officer stopped her, claiming that filming at CP was “against a rule set” by authorities. In a video she later posted online, Singh can be seen questioning the officer about this supposed restriction, calling it an unheard-of rule.
As the exchange grew tense, another woman, identifying herself as a lawyer, stepped in to back Singh. She challenged the cop’s claim and told him there was no such law, urging him to “focus on other grave matters” instead. Singh, meanwhile, alleged that the officer tried to intimidate her into stopping and accused him of turning the situation into “an ego fight.”
Sharing the footage on Instagram, Singh wrote, “I was not prepared for this.”
The video quickly spread across social media, sparking a wave of reactions. Many users expressed disbelief at the so-called “no video rule,” calling it fabricated. Others criticized the police for spending time on trivial matters rather than serious issues.
“Really appreciate the lawyer who stepped in during this incident proud of you, ma’am,” one comment read. “You’ve made the entire community proud. And yes, there’s absolutely no rule that says you can’t record in Connaught Place.”
Another user advised Singh to “write a mail to the SP & DCP attach this evidence of harassment,” while someone else bluntly stated, “We need lawer like her not police like him.”
Others called out the apparent misuse of authority: “It’s so sad how the people who are supposed to protect us are always on a trip of fragile male ego and power.”
