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Nasir Ali
Srinagar: Social crimes among youths in Kashmir have witnessed an alarming increase in recent years, posing a significant challenge to the fabric of society. These crimes encompass a wide range of offenses, including but not limited to drug abuse, cybercrime, sexual harassment, violence, and vandalism. Addressing this issue necessitates a comprehensive approach involving both society and the legal system.
Several factors contribute to the rise of social crimes among youths in Kashmir. Firstly, the rapidly changing socio-economic landscape has brought about numerous challenges. Unemployment, poverty, and lack of opportunities can push young individuals toward criminal activities as a means of survival or as an outlet for frustration. Additionally, the influence of social media, the internet, and the accessibility of technology have exposed youths to new forms of criminal behavior, such as cyberbullying, online scams, and hacking.
“The incidents as reported of knife attacks, thefts, kidnapping, jewelry and purse snatching, mobile snatching, eve-teasing are on the increase. The teenagers can be seen cat-calls, whistling and passing dirty remarks on young girls, students near by coaching institutes, tuition centers, hostels, at old Zerobridge (wooden bridge) or at road side, lanes, bylanes. If an elderly person objects they use abusive language and insult the person. Thus the honour, life and property of the peace – loving citizens are in danger. There is an atmosphere of insecurity and fear in the entire locality especially in Rajbagh, Zerobridge, Parray Pora and Baghat areas. No resident dares to go out after the dark. The most worrying factor is most of these crimes are being done by teenagers. These crimes are the fallout of their unregulated and unmonitored overexposure to the internet,” narrated Mohammad Altaf Dar (Social activist and senior trade leader) while talking with ‘Asia Speaks’
Society plays a vital role in curbing social crimes by focusing on education and awareness. Schools, colleges, and community organizations must impart ethical values, character building, and respect for the law through comprehensive educational programs. It is crucial to instill a sense of responsibility, empathy, and citizenship among youths, emphasizing the consequences of their actions on individuals and society as a whole.
Families must assume responsibility for nurturing and guiding their children in the right direction. Strong family bonds, open communication, and parental involvement are crucial in preventing youths from engaging in criminal activities. Parents should actively monitor their children’s activities, provide guidance, and set positive examples to discourage anti-social behavior.
The juvenile justice system needs to be strengthened to address the specific needs of young offenders. Balancing accountability with rehabilitation is essential to prevent further criminal behavior. Providing counseling, skill development, and educational opportunities within correctional facilities can help in the reintegration of youths into society.
Religions provides a moral framework that guides individuals’ behavior. They emphasize principles such as honesty, compassion, forgiveness, and respect for others. Religious teachings can instill a sense of ethical responsibility and discourage individuals from engaging in criminal activities that harm others or society.
Religious rituals and practices can promote discipline, self-control, and a sense of personal responsibility. Regular participation in religious ceremonies, prayers, or other spiritual practices can help individuals develop a sense of inner peace, self-reflection, and mindfulness, which can deter them from engaging in criminal activities.
It is pertinent to mention here that the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) report, the overall crime graph in Jammu and Kashmir increased by 24.6% in 2021 as compared to 2020. The report also marked that crimes committed by juveniles showed an increase in 2021. The numbers jumped to 323 in 2021 with 2020 registering only 171 cases. Additionally, J&K recorded 1,681 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The NCRB report claimed that 79.9% of the murder culprits were charge-sheeted.
Several cases of horrific crimes are coming to light in the valley almost every passing day which points towards the fact that society’s values are deteriorating.
