Compromising photographs of some of our legislators leaked
on social media is the hottest topic of discussion currently. There are debates
going on and opinions being expressed in various groups and forums.
Firstly, let me be clear that I strongly believe that political
leaders, public leaders must be held to a higher standard. If there are no
moral standards a leader ought to honour, then what would prevent his being a
liar, a perjurer, an adulterer, a thief and a deceiver? Therefore, leaders must
be held accountable for their actions, as in the current case. This was what I
told the reporter of a local newspaper, though it was left out when I was
quoted in the report that appeared, due to space constraints I presume.
However, right now I want to put focus on the disturbing
trend of debates on social media – the complete intolerance of opposing views,
bullying of those expressing different opinions and hurling of insults and
personal attacks on anyone who voices something that one may not like. I’m
talking about discussions in Naga specific groups particularly on Facebook.
These seem to be the most popular forums where young Nagas come to voice their
views and vent their frustrations on various issues.
If you spend any time at all online, you will be aware of
how most of these ‘discussions’ on social media end up. The loudest will shout
down those holding views that do not suit them and they will try to destroy
with insults and obnoxious language while literally declaring war on those who
do not agree with them. It’s a ‘my way or the highway’ kind of behaviour where
decency and rational debate are thrown out the window under the cloak of online
anonymity.
The ongoing debate on the legislators’ issue is a case in
point. There have been many who have been completely intolerant of different
viewpoints, refusing to listen and discuss like civilised people and instead
resorting to bullying tactics to shut people up.
Let me cite an example: Someone had posted her perspective
of the issue in a group. Reading her post, I don’t see her
supporting the wrongdoers anywhere or suggesting that they should not face the
consequences of their actions. From what I can understand, she was pointing out
from a Christian perspective that the current issue is an opportunity for us to
reflect on the reasons for the breakdown of our society, the apparent crumbling
of our moral fibre.
One or two people who did not share some of her views voiced
their disagreement in a decent and intelligent manner to which she replied back
on points mentioned by them…...you know, the way discussions and debates are
supposed to proceed. Had the conversation progressed in this tone of mutual
respect we would have surely gained new insights while hearing viewpoints on
both sides of the fence. But no, this was not to be as the discussion was soon
overrun by the loud ones….the screamers who will not allow opinions other than
their own and will resort to the most unacceptable behaviour to do this.
First of all, it was quite obvious that many had not really understood
the essence of the write-up. Just because the writer had based her points on
the Bible, many appeared to immediately see red and jumped to the conclusion that
she was trying to justify the wrongdoing with Biblical quotes. The comments
that followed were frankly quite unbelievable. All and sundry started diving in
with personal attacks on her faith, her beliefs while also generally ridiculing
religion, Christianity, the Bible and so on and so forth. Some called her a
hypocrite for quoting the Bible, others said she was using the Lord’s name in
vain, still others mocked her as an ‘expert on the Bible’ and a half baked
‘fustarni’ which someone explained is Pastoress in Nagamese – first time I’m
coming across the word! There were numerous other obnoxious things said which effectively
killed off any attempt at an objective discussion.
I cite this particular conversation as an example of how most
debates in these groups quickly degenerate into totally unacceptable levels
leaving no scope for anything constructive to emerge out of them.
I find this whole online behaviour very disturbing because
it is mostly young Nagas, the new generation, who are indulging in it. I say
disturbing because it is they who will be at the helm of affairs in the not too
distant future. If this intolerant mentality being displayed online is to cross
over into real life dealings, then our society is indeed in very big trouble.
There is a need for us to cultivate the kind of intellectual
capacity that allows us to listen respectfully to different points of view,
even when we disagree passionately.
To come back to the leaked photographs, another troubling
element observed in all the outrage being expressed is the salacious glee with
which some have been posting the images as also the lewd comments being made about the girls involved as well as all young Naga girls in general. It makes one
wonder whether these people are motivated by real concern or some kind of
perverted interest.
There are many aspects to this issue that begs our
reflection besides the ‘off with their heads’ reaction that is dominating the
discourse. It is, of course, very important that the thinking public, especially the youth, speak up
and hold the concerned public leaders answerable for their actions. But I also
agree with the view that it is also a good time for us to reflect on why our
society is coming to such a pass where it is going so wrong on so many levels.
If only we can bring this to the table too and explore it without pummelling one
another left and right, new ideas and thoughts can possibly emerge whereby we
can start rebuilding again.
Lastly, as I have already stated earlier and quoted in the
news report, simply arguing endlessly among ourselves and insulting one another on social
media will not bring about any change. I would say to the youth, if you want
answers, demand it. Come out in the open and demand it from the leaders in
question, approach the party leaders and ask them what they intend to do about
it. Take action if you want your leaders to be accountable for what they do.