Social media activism is replacing real-world change

No

Virtual warriors

So many protests today are organised through social media. People who post also march. Police brutality, corruption and harassment are being documented through social media. Fundraising links have helped raise millions of dollars for affected and needy communities. Activists on social media should be recognised as virtual soldiers of real-world change.

Anusha Fatima
Second year, St Xavier’s College, Calcutta

Support system

Social media actually enhances our ability to face reality. It provides vital educational tools and global support networks that empower individuals to tackle massive crises and navigate modern hardships.

Saumili Mukherjji
First year, Loreto College, Calcutta

Road less travelled

When people are at protests asking for fair play, when people are beaten for their posters in a supposedly free country, activism will, of course, take the road less travelled. We are angry but apparently not angry enough to overthrow medieval mindsets, which claim beti bachao and not beta ko sikhao.

Adrija Mondal
Second year, Rabindra Bharati University, Calcutta

Yes

Performative activism

Today, changing a profile picture, reposting a video or signing an online petition can make us feel that we have done our part. We call it activism. But activism without action can become just performance. A meaningful movement should not end with a “share”. It should begin there.

Minakshi Hazra
BSc nursing, NRS Medical College and Hospital, Calcutta

Beyond screen

A hashtag can reach millions, draw attention to an injustice and bring people together within hours. But awareness alone cannot create change. That demands something less convenient — volunteering, organising, helping people in our communities or standing up for an issue.

Abhranil Sen
Class IX, Ramnagar Rao High School, Ramnagar, East Midnapore

Point to ponder

Social media is often misused. In the name of disseminating awareness, activists often push their own political and economic agenda, even if it polarises people. This erodes positive social changes such as communal harmony and scientific thinking.

Iftekhar Ahmed
Second year, Calcutta University