The road rage incident in Bengaluru this week involving a Wing Commander of the Indian Air Force and a biker is the latest example. What started as a seemingly straightforward case quickly turned into a classic case study of how we, as a society, rush to judgment, with half-baked facts, loud opinions, and even louder outrage.
Let’s unpack this.
Day One: The Narrative Takes Off
The IAF officer’s video statement did the rounds—he claimed he was abused, physically assaulted, and yet chose not to retaliate. That version, short and powerful, went viral on social media. The accused biker was arrested within hours.
There was a wave of anger against “locals” allegedly targeting outsiders. A linguistic flashpoint was beginning to brew.
But the story was far from over.
Two images that tell very different stories
Day Two: The Flip Begins
Soon, CCTV footage surfaced—this time, showing the IAF officer hitting the biker without a trace of restraint.
That clip triggered a new round of outrage. Kannada organisations called for action against the officer. Social media turned on him, questioning his behaviour and integrity.
Just as that narrative was gaining momentum, another clip emerged. A different camera angle. This time, it showed the biker initiating the attack.
It wasn’t a black-and-white case. It was messy. Complex. And, like most real stories, it couldn’t be summed up in a single post.
Our Growing Need to React, Not Reflect
This isn’t the first time we’ve jumped the gun. Nor will it be the last.
Why do we do this?
Because we’re impatient. Because outrage gives us a dopamine hit. Because waiting is boring, and declaring judgment is empowering.
We consume stories like fast food—quickly, emotionally, and often, without checking the ingredients.
But unlike fast food, these reactions have real consequences. We ruin reputations, stir communal tensions, and widen social divides—all before the facts are fully in.
Ask Yourself This
Would you want someone to form an opinion about you based on a 10-second clip? Would you be okay if your worst moment, stripped of context, became a national talking point? If not, why are we so quick to do that to others?
Social media has democratised opinion. But with that comes a responsibility—to wait, to verify, and most importantly, to hold back when the facts aren’t clear.
Let’s not confuse silence with apathy. Sometimes, it’s just wisdom.
About Me
I am a thinker at all times. I see, I think. I hear, I think. I read, I think. Every weekend I write. I would love to know what you think.