Murder suspected after influencer Kamal Kaur found dead in car; Gangster Arsh Dalla threats under scanner

Dubai: The body of Punjabi social media influencer Kamal Kaur was discovered inside a parked car near Adesh Medical University in Punjab on Wednesday night, prompting Punjab Police to register a case of suspected murder.

The discovery was made after locals complained of a foul odour coming from the vehicle.

Kaur, whose real name was Kanchan Kumari, was a Ludhiana-based content creator with over 3.84 lakh Instagram followers. Known for her comedic reels—often laced with bold and controversial language—Kaur had previously received threats for her content.

According to a report in Hindustan Times, she had been threatened last year by Canada-based Khalistani gangster Arsh Dalla, who accused her of spreading “filth” online.

In an October 2024 audio recording reported by News18 Punjab, Dalla could be heard warning Kaur to remove her videos and threatening harm to her family if she did not comply.

While police have not officially named any suspects, Kaur’s prior conflict with Dalla is now part of the ongoing investigation. Her body was reportedly dumped in a car registered in Ludhiana after being killed elsewhere.

Bathinda SSP Amneet Kondal told The Times of India, “Prima facie there seems something fishy and FIR under murder charges is being registered.” A forensic team has been dispatched to examine the scene and vehicle.

Kaur’s death adds to a disturbing global trend involving influencers who face real-world threats, violence, or even death as a result of their public personas.

These incidents underscore the growing risks faced by influencers—particularly women—who may be seen as provocative or transgressive in conservative or volatile environments. Public visibility, polarising content, and lack of institutional protection contribute to this rising danger.