The head coach of the Indian cricket team and former MP, Gautam Gambhir, received a chilling death threat involving two emails on April 22 with the subject line, “I KILL YOU.” The two emailed threats originated from a group taking the name of “ISIS Kashmir” just days after 26 people died in the Pahalgam terror attack. With the public already on edge from the terrorist act, the people asking questions about the safety of a high-profile public figure in their own right are taking it to another level. 

Gambhir has never been one to shy away from his opinions against terrorism and in support of national security and quickly alerted the authorities. Gambhir filed a formal complaint with the Delhi Police, who quickly registered an FIR and began investigating. Gambhir is not new to these same types of intimidation, as the attacks accompanied him during his political career. However, in light of the current threat assessment and the direct nature of that threat, all the scrutiny attached to his position as one of India's most scrutinized athletes has created heightened concern. 

We have been informed about an alleged threat mail received on an email ID associated with Gautam Gambhir. The matter is being investigated," said DCP (Central) M. Harsha Vardhan.Delhi Police are currently attempting to identify the email's origin. Gambhir's current details have been reviewed and have reportedly been examined and increased. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) could also take part in the investigation, indicating the seriousness of the threat. Gambhir continues to maintain his public commitments but has demanded full protection for himself and his family.

See Also: ' You're sheltering and nurturing terrorists'—Former' Pakistan cricketer blames PM Shehbaz Sharif after Pahalgam attack

Rising Threats to Public Figures in India

Make no mistake, this is not the only case. We are seeing a growing threat to public figures, particularly those aligned with stronger nationalist or anti-terror views, who have increasingly become tertiary targets- and soft targets at that—for extremist groups. The threat matrix has evolved, particularly as the digital realm has been weaponized for intimidation without borders. Public figures and those in the public eye, be they journalists, politicians, social/entertainment figures, or sports and celebrity icons, are increasingly more targeted.

It is now time for the government to change to a proactive way of security. At the end of the day, reactive and passive protection is increasingly inadequate as the threats multiply and become more complex. We need an overhaul of how to specifically do digital surveillance, threat detection, and personal security for those in the public domain. Gambhir has delivered a flare-a cry for help that requires immediate structural change.

Finally, this episode illuminates that fame and service come at a significant personal price during volatile times. As India confronts insecurities internally and externally, it is crisis engagement at every level of society to protect the ambassadors of courage and national pride who openly take risks in terms of their lives-not only to create art but also through dialogue and messaging. The disquieting truth is greatly distasteful, and the time is now to proactively protect these individuals in conflict and danger.