Online shopping platform Meesho ran into trouble after a controversial T-shirt featuring Lawrence Bishnoi, a figure involved in criminal activities, gained attention. The situation has sparked a wave of criticism on social media, where users have condemned the sale of items that appear to glorify criminal behavior. In response to the backlash, Meesho quickly released a statement pointing to the removal of the product from its platform.
Meesho’s official response
A Meesho spokesperson stated: “We took immediate action to deactivate the product. Meesho remains committed to providing a safe and trustworthy shopping platform for all our users.” The company’s swift action underscores growing concerns about the portrayal of criminals in popular culture, especially in merchandise aimed at young consumers.
Also read: Indian-origin Microsoft CEO takes charge $46 crore salary cut, his annual package is…
Social media outcry against gangster merchandise
The controversy first emerged when social media user Alishan Jafri highlighted the T-shirt listing on X (formerly Twitter). Jafri shared an image of the T-shirt along with a post criticizing platforms like Meesho for allowing the sale of what he called “gangster merchandise.” “Literally, people are selling gangster goods on platforms like @Meesho_Official and Teeshopper,” he commented. This is just one example of India’s latest online radicalization.” The t-shirt was sold at such a low price $166, showing an image of Lawrence Bishnoi, with some versions emblazoned with the phrase “The True Hero.”
Also read: Android Auto will no longer work for these users, here’s what you can do
The tendency to glorify criminals
In subsequent posts, Jafri pointed to additional lists featuring other notorious individuals, suggesting a trend of glorifying criminals. “At a time when the police and NIA are making efforts to prevent youth from engaging in gang crime, social media influencers are making quick money by promoting content about gangs and glorifies gangs.”
Also read: Law student takes University to court after failing due to AI-powered answers, all details here
The reaction from social network users was quick and fierce. One user expressed outrage and said: “Shame on Meesho and similar sites.” Another user lamented: “So Meesho loves gangsters and advertises them on children’s clothing. Wow!” These comments echoed calls to stop the promotion of gangster culture, with one user declaring: “This gangster culture will destroy India.”
As the debate continues, Meesho faces scrutiny over its role in the ongoing debate around crime and youth culture in India.
