Srinagar, July 3: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir, Dr. Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq, on Friday called for responsible conduct by media organisations and social media users, saying those holding cameras and microphones carry a responsibility towards society and before Allah.
Addressing the Friday congregation at the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar, Mirwaiz, according to JKNS, quoted the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ: “Beware, every one of you is a guardian (shepherd), and every one of you will be questioned about those under his care.”
He said every individual, including parents, teachers, leaders, traders and media professionals, would be accountable for their responsibilities.
Mirwaiz said the media plays a vital role in shaping public opinion, while social media has become an influential platform in today’s society. He said that when used responsibly, these platforms strengthen society, but when driven only by the pursuit of followers, views and TRPs without considering their impact, they can cause serious harm.
Referring to a recent viral video involving a minor child commenting on heat and school holidays, Mirwaiz expressed concern over exposing children to social media in such a manner.
He said society must reflect on whether minors should be used for public reactions without understanding the long-term consequences.
He observed that children are the future of society and that the questions put before them and the content they are exposed to shape their thinking.
“Children cannot be treated as tools for entertainment, publicity or social media engagement,” he said.
Stressing the need for ethical journalism and responsible digital behaviour, Mirwaiz said those who hold cameras and microphones should remember the responsibility they carry towards society and before Allah.
He appealed to media professionals, content creators and social media users to act with sensitivity, restraint and responsibility, adding that the future character of society will largely depend on the content people choose to watch, like and share.
Mirwaiz urged the public to exercise wisdom and discretion while sharing content and said public discourse, even in disagreement, should reflect maturity, respect and moral responsibility so that children are provided with positive examples to follow. (JKNS)
