Youth, political parties rapidly turned to social media post lockdown

There has been a massive surge in the usage of social media platforms by the youth and political parties post lockdown. The increasing use of these digital platforms is challenging the internal security of the country, leading to social disputes.

Hyderabad: In today’s world, social media plays a key role in exchanging information. Instagram and Twitter have become the go-to sites to share emotions and day to day updates with virtual friends.

Even, political parties and civil organizations are launching online campaigns to win elections. Social media is also being used by the governments to redress citizen grievances and track the implementation of welfare schemes.

On the other hand, rampant misuse of these sites has its own downsides. Adolescents and youngsters, in particular, are hooked to electronic gadgets.

Until a few years ago, educational institutions used to include extracurricular activities in their curriculum. After the advent of smartphones, the habit of reading is disappearing fast. People are happy wasting away time in pointless browsing. WhatsApp, YouTube and Facebook have started commanding our lives.

During the coronavirus-induced lockdowns, there was an increase in social media usage. After smartphones became mandatory for online classes, digital addiction among students shot up too.

Studies show an alarming rise in pornography views. Experts warn that the proliferation of social media has its share of risks. Excessive digital presence is impacting kids’ physical activity, resulting in low grades and obesity.

Political parties and religious organizations are influencing the youth through their online campaigns. Intolerance, ignorance and abusive behaviour are common among vulnerable youngsters who are addicted to digital tools. Several people were booked under section 66 of the IT Act 2000 for posting offensive messages on their social media accounts.

READ: COVID Misinformation Tough To Stop On Social Media: Study

The increasing use of these digital platforms is challenging the internal security of the country, leading to social disputes. Psychologists are worried that early exposure to digital forums can negatively impact a child’s mental state.

It’s not uncommon for some kids to react violently when parents reprimand them about too much screen presence. In fact, there were instances where kids killed themselves and family members over disputes related to smartphones.

The majority of digital victims are children and youngsters. There is an imminent danger of disrupted family ties and moral values. Hence, governments need to take immediate action to keep a check on social media users.

Despite their necessity in today’s competitive world, digital tools must be used sparingly. The Madras High Court had earlier directed the central and state governments to set up a special board to censor videos posted on social media.

It is the primary responsibility of parents to teach their kids good behaviour. It is up to every person to exercise self-restraint and stay sane. Teachers and society must play a key role in guiding the kids in the right direction.

Schools must encourage the habit of reading in students. Youngsters must be taught emotional balance and pushed to take part in community service and public awareness campaigns outside of social media. Such initiatives must be started across all the schools and colleges to prevent imminent digital hazards.

READ: Chhattisgarh: Cybercrime saw spike during lockdown