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Neeraj Chopra opens up on social media’s pressure after Arshad Nadeem abuse controversy, says ‘some people…’
24htopnews | May 18, 2025 11:06 AM CST

New Delhi: Following the 2025 Pahalgam attack Neeraj Chopra faced online harassment from some fans angered by an invitation extended to Pakistani athlete Arshad Nadeem for the NC Classic. This led Chopra to issue a public statement on X clarifying that the invitation was issued prior to the attack and revealing that the abuse extended to his mother. On April 22nd a Pahalgam attack resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians. The Resistance Front (TRF) a Lashkar-e-Taiba splinter group claimed responsibility. India responded with Operation Sindoor reportedly eliminating over 100 high-value terrorists. This led to cross-border shelling and drone attacks from Pakistan. A ceasefire eventually followed although Pakistan intermittently violated it. In an interview with Al Jazeera Neeraj discussed the social media pressure hes facing before the Doha Diamond League competition. Responding to the question if social media created a lot of pressure he said Social media has given everyone with a phone and an internet connection the platform and freedom to say whatever they like and attack whomever they want. Some people take to social media to vent their pent-up frustrations. If they are facing any issues in their personal lives that cant be aired they take aim at people on social media. However I try not to worry about such comments and focus on my work. Due to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack the NC Classic has been postponed. Arshad Nadeems absence from the Doha event is a significant loss. Neeraj Chopra will compete alongside fellow Indian Kishore Jena with Jakub Vadlejch and Anderson Peters also participating on Friday. Responding to the question if he ever wanted to quit social media Neeraj said “Of course. I can quit social media in a heartbeat if I want to. I never feel obligated to maintain a presence. I am there to share my journey promote the sport and create a pathway for other athletes from my country.” I want to show what goes behind becoming an international athlete. I am not an influencer I am an athlete. Javelin is my career not social media. I can quit social media very easily he added.  


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