Modi abuse video girl issues apology, says she was 'influenced'

A 15-year-old girl, purportedly seen in a viral video abusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi, apologised on social media on Saturday, saying she was "influenced" by a group of people to repeat the remarks.

The girl said the video was not posted by her and that she was "extremely embarrassed and ashamed". PTI could not independently verify the authenticity of the apology video.

The apology came after a police complaint was filed in connection with the video.

In the video, the girl said she had gone to Connaught Place with friends in July, where she came across a group allegedly using abusive and objectionable language against Modi.

"They influenced me and encouraged me to repeat those words, and I did," she said.

"I am not able to look anyone in the eye. I appeal to the entire country and everyone to please forgive me. I am only 15 years old. This is my first and last mistake, and I will never repeat such an act again," she said.

Meanwhile, Modi, in a late-night video message, said it pained him that he and his late mother had been subjected to "filthy abuses" during a protest at Jantar Mantar.

He appealed for the "misguided children" to be forgiven and guided on the right path.

The girl was subjected to a police complaint following the circulation of the video. A police officer said on Friday that Delhi Police would first examine the contents of the Zero FIR registered in Noida on July 29 before taking further action. The FIR was transferred to Delhi on Friday as the alleged offence took place in the national capital.

Delhi Police had earlier registered an FIR at the Special Cell Police Station over the circulation of the video, issued notices to social media platform X seeking its removal and sought preservation of relevant electronic records as part of the investigation.