Jabalpur/Pune: A Jabalpur-based dentist has issued a public apology after facing widespread criticism for posting a social media video mocking the death of entrepreneur Ketan Agarwal, whose alleged murder in Pune has shocked the country. The apology came shortly after the All India Dental Students and Surgeons Association (AIDSA) suspended her from all posts and revoked her membership for five years over what it described as "highly inappropriate, offensive, and disrespectful" remarks.

The dentist, Muskan Soni, said her comments stemmed from what she described as her "funny personality" and insisted she never intended to hurt anyone. In a video posted on social media, Soni admitted that her attempt at humour was a serious mistake and expressed regret for the pain caused to Agarwal's family and the public.

"I have a bit of a funny personality. My intention was to make people smile, but I realise now that what I said was completely wrong," she said. She added that the apology was genuine and not merely an attempt to escape criticism.

The controversy erupted after Soni uploaded a video in which she mocked Ketan Agarwal's death while laughing and making insensitive remarks. In the clip, she also used the hashtag #IHateMen, drawing sharp criticism from social media users and professional bodies alike.

The video quickly went viral, with many condemning the comments as insensitive, particularly because the case involves allegations that Agarwal was pushed to his death from a cliff in Pune by his fiancée, Siya Goyal. The case remains under investigation and has attracted significant public attention.

Responding to the backlash, AIDSA announced disciplinary action against Soni, stating that her remarks violated the ethical standards expected of medical professionals. The association said such conduct was unacceptable and damaged the dignity of the profession.

In her apology, Soni appealed to people to stop sending abusive messages and threats. She revealed that the intense online backlash had forced her to make her YouTube account private. While acknowledging the criticism, she said personal attacks directed at her were equally distressing.

Addressing the controversy surrounding her repeated use of the #IHateMen hashtag, Soni claimed it reflected certain personal experiences rather than hatred towards all men. She maintained that she had previously spoken in support of male victims in several cases and insisted that she did not discriminate against anyone based on gender.

"I am sorry to Ketan Agarwal's family and to everyone whose sentiments I have hurt. I have realised that this is not something to joke about, and I promise such a mistake will never be repeated," she said.

The incident has once again highlighted the growing scrutiny surrounding the responsible use of social media by professionals. It has also sparked a wider debate on ethical conduct online, the limits of humour involving ongoing criminal cases, and the accountability of public figures whose content reaches large audiences.