Public display of affection, commonly referred to as PDA, elicits strong emotions and opinions from people worldwide. While some consider it a sweet expression of love, others find it distasteful and even offensive. PDA has been a subject of debate for a long time, with various cultures having different perspectives on it. Some cultures embrace it openly, while others find it inappropriate, even taboo.
However, in general, it can be said that a majority of Indians do not appreciate PDA. While it may be romantic and heartwarming, it’s important to be mindful of one’s surroundings and other people’s comfort levels. Nobody wants to witness a passionate PDA session while waiting in line at the supermarket or on a crowded train.
In recent times, the Delhi Metro, a popular mode of transportation in India’s capital city, has been in the news for various reasons, including some controversies. Videos of different kinds have been surfacing on social media platforms, drawing attention and sparking debates. From Rhythm Chanana’s attire that received both applause and criticism to an old incident where a woman used pepper spray on a fellow passenger during a heated argument, the Delhi metro has had its share of attention.
Yet again, the public transport system has made headlines due to a video of a couple engaging in PDA. The video, showing the couple kissing, cuddling, and holding hands on the train, went viral on social media, drawing widespread attention. Many people expressed their disgust, while others defended the couple, saying that they had a right to express their love in public.
Viral video of the couple kissing in Delhi metro sparks a movement to normalize PDA
The video was shared on Twitter along with the caption saying,
Shameful Viral Video from #Delhi After Patna Junction, Once all the passengers in the Delhi Metro train had to be embarrassed. Peaceful kissing Video shameless #GigiHadid #delhimetro #GigiHadid #wtcfinal #BBB23 #VideoViral
Soon her tweet went viral and received mixed reactions
https://twitter.com/Rich_aaaaa/status/1642794526615175169?s=20
Chill guys, it's just PDA.
— sean444 ☯⚛️ (@sean4_44) April 4, 2023
Perfect couple with lots of best wishes 💐
— Deb Bhowmick (@Joy_9791) April 4, 2023
Why do Delhi Metro travelers get scandalized when people kiss in the train?
Mumbai aake dekho. You can see couples kissing everywhere and others mostly minding their own business.
— A (@aroohli) April 4, 2023
A video of a couple kissing in #DelhiMetro was recently shared on Twitter with the claim that it was an act of cultural genocide. When I visited Europe for the first time, I was delighted to see people expressing their love openly, and it became my favourite thing to witness.
— Uncle Fed (@WhatTheFahad) April 5, 2023
I hope people kiss daily on the Delhi Metro so that this voyeuristic content goes out of fashion. Mind your own business…or get on Bumble! Holy mother of….
— Sir_Ban_Wick 🎩 (@The_RealBan) April 5, 2023
North Indian men must have everyone behave according to their prehistoric mindset else they will report you to the police or record you doing it. 🤷♂️
— Sir_Ban_Wick 🎩 (@The_RealBan) April 5, 2023
Filming someone without their consent or posting a video of the same is punishable under IPC Section 354 C
But this is more about breaking a law, this is about a society so frustrated that it cant even see 2 young people show affection. https://t.co/4xIA4cGiVN
— Roshan Rai (@RoshanKrRaii) April 5, 2023
The video of the couple kissing on the Delhi Metro received criticism on Twitter, but some people defended them, calling out the naysayers for being outraged over harmless displays of affection. Others also pointed out that filming and releasing the video without the couple’s consent is a crime.
Do you know kissing in public is legal in India?
In India, public shows of affection like kissing are not illegal, but in some contexts, particularly in more traditional and conservative places, they may be seen as culturally improper.
Couples have occasionally been fined or even detained for making outward shows of affection, with accusations of “public obscenity” or “disturbing public order” leveled against them. The so-called “moral police” or observer complaints are typically what sparks these incidents.
Particularly in more conservative areas, it is always advisable to use caution and refrain from engaging in public shows of affection that might offend or distress others.
Some couples have faced fines or even detention for engaging in such behavior, with charges of “public obscenity” or “disturbing public order” being brought against them. These incidents are often instigated by so-called “moral police” or complaints from observers.
It’s important to exercise caution, especially in conservative areas, and avoid engaging in public displays of affection that may offend or distress others. Being mindful of cultural sensitivities and societal norms can help prevent such incidents from occurring.
