If you were still in doubt about how much Modi and the government control the public, journalists who covered the farmer protests are currently facing charges. Indian police have arrested at least 122 people, and their attempts to silence Indian citizens relays how dangerously draconian the government is. Using cultivated advertising and media, Modi has portrayed himself as a redeemer.

Not having the language to describe my experiences pushed me further into a corner. Learning the term “love bombing” transformed the way I reclaimed my story.

The more the world seemed to be on fire, the closer my girlfriend wanted to be while it had the complete opposite effect on me. Sex never crossed my mind. It only came up when I thought about how I felt bad for her that I no longer wanted it.

Our world has changed drastically before, prioritizing power and violence every time. This time, may that change hold survivors at the centre instead.

These standards and expectations leave women questioning their bodies and confidence. The marks and scars left behind are a part of me, but they do not detract from what makes me, me - no matter what other people think.

Advocating for myself, publicly and privately, has been the most significant component of my self-love journey.