Videos from Kerala showing men carrying cardboard sheets like makeshift “shields” on crowded buses have gone viral on social media.

In the clips, men and even a bus conductor are seen holding cardboard in front of them, reportedly to avoid accidental physical contact with women passengers and protect themselves from misunderstandings.

The trend emerged after the death of 42-year-old Deepak U, who allegedly died by suicide following public humiliation.

A woman had recorded and shared a video accusing him of harassment on a bus, an allegation later found to be false by police.

A case of abetment to suicide has since been registered.

The viral “cardboard shield” trend has now sparked a wider debate on public shaming, misuse of social media, and safety concerns affecting both men and women.