Mirwaiz Umar Farooq calls for responsible conduct by media
Srinagar, July 3
Chief cleric and senior Kashmiri religious leader, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, on Friday called for responsible conduct from those in media or those using social media.
Mirwaiz addressed the Friday congregation at the historic Central Jama Masjid at Srinagar when he urged individuals, society and especially the media to uphold responsibility, restraint and moral accountability in public conduct.
Referring to the sayings of the Prophet -- "Beware, every one of you is a guardian/shepherd, and every one of you will be questioned about those under his care", the Kashmiri Chief cleric said that every individual carries a responsibility for which they will be answerable.
He added that this applies to parents, teachers, traders, leaders, public figures and also to the media, which plays a major role in shaping public opinion.
Mirwaiz said that media is an important pillar of society, and social media today has assumed great significance.
"When used with wisdom and responsibility, it (media) informs and strengthens society. However, when used only to gain followers, viewership or TRP, without considering its impact, it can cause serious harm."
Referring to a recent viral video in which a minor child was asked about heat and school holidays, and whose impolite response was aired and widely shared, Mirwaiz expressed concern over such content.
He said that society must ask whether minor children should be exposed to social media in this manner and used for public reactions without understanding the consequences.
Mirwaiz added that children are the future, and the questions asked of them and the content they are exposed to shape their thinking.
He said that children cannot be treated as tools for entertainment, publicity or social media engagement.
He stressed that responsible media and social media require sensitivity and accountability.
Those who hold cameras and microphones must remember that they carry a responsibility before the society and before Allah, he said.
Mirwaiz appealed to media persons, content creators and social media users to act with care, restraint and responsibility.
He said that in today's overwhelming social media environment, the kind of society we become will depend greatly on what we watch, like and share.
He urged people to share content with wisdom and discretion, and said public discourse, even in disagreement, should reflect maturity, respect and moral responsibility, so that children have a good example before them.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally someone from the religious establishment calling out the media circus. That viral video of the child being asked about school holidays was disgusting. What kind of question is that? And then they air it like it's entertainment. Shameful.
Mirwaiz ki baat mein dum hai. But I also feel that parents need to take responsibility for what their kids watch on social media. Blaming only media is not enough. Every one of us is a shepherd, as he said.
Such a timely message. Social media has become a monster. People share anything without thinking about the consequences. The Prophet's saying about being guardians is so relevant. We will be questioned about what we share and how we influence others.
I respect Mirwaiz ji's concern, but I wish he also addressed the other side - how media sensationalizes political issues, especially in Kashmir. The TRP chase applies to every news channel, not just social media. But yes, children should be protected.
This is exactly what India needs to hear. From Delhi to Srinagar, our media has become a circus. Everyone wants views and likes, ethics be damned. Mirwaiz sahab is absolutely right - children should not be made into entertainment objects.
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