Women's panel condemns trolling, stands with Lt Narwal's wife

In the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack that claimed the life of Navy officer Lt Vinay Narwal, the National Commission for Women (NCW) has come forward in support of his grieving wife, Himanshi, condemning the trolling on social media following her emotional appeal for peace, unity and communal harmony.

The NCW reacted strongly to the trolling and issued a statement on its X account: “After the death of Lt. Vinay Narwal, the way his wife Himanshi is being criticised on social media in relation to one of her statements is unfortunate.”

The commission said while someone might disagree with her, such disagreement must remain within the limits of the Constitution and be expressed through civil discussion, especially when directed toward someone facing such a profound personal loss. The NCW said the country was "hurt and angry", but urged restraint, adding, “It is not right to troll a woman on the basis of her ideological expression or personal life.”

Lt Narwal (27) was killed, along with 25 others, in Kashmir on April 22. His death has not only triggered national outrage, especially as reports confirm he was shot after being asked his religion, but also prompted national mourning.

Himanshi had tied the knot with Lt Narwal on April 16. The attack took place when they were on their honeymoon.

On May 1, Himanshi appeared before the camera for the first time since his cremation, not with anger or blame, but with a tearful appeal for unity.

Speaking at a blood donation camp organised in her husband’s memory, she said: “This is what is happening — people going against Muslims and Kashmiris. We do not want this. We want peace and only peace.”

Her message resonated with many, who praised her courage, dignity, and grace in the face of unimaginable loss. However, a section of social media responded with anger. Some anonymous accounts labelled her as “anti-national" and “sympathiser”, and some questioned her patriotism.