Mushtaq Bhat
People often say that times have changed, but sometimes it feels that along with time, our behaviour and values have also changed for the worse. We see better roads, bigger buildings, smartphones in every hand and access to everything within seconds. Yet peace of mind and social responsibility seem to be disappearing slowly from society.
Every other day, we come across shocking incidents, drug addiction among youth, crimes against women and children, disrespect towards parents, online abuse and increasing intolerance in daily life. Such incidents are not just news headlines. They reflect the condition of society and the mindset we are unknowingly creating around us.
Earlier, families were considered the first schools of character. Children learned manners, patience and compassion from their elders. Today, many families hardly sit together even for a single meal. Mobile phones have occupied the place where conversations once existed. People are more connected online but emotionally distant in real life.
Another worrying trend is that success is now judged mostly by money, status and appearance. In this race, honesty and humanity are often ignored. Many youngsters grow up under pressure to “show” a perfect life rather than live a meaningful one. Social media has added to this problem by creating unhealthy comparisons, artificial lifestyles and emotional frustration.
The growing menace of drugs among youth is perhaps one of the clearest signs that society is struggling internally. Unemployment, lack of guidance and emotional isolation push many young people towards destructive habits. Families suffer silently, while society often reacts only after tragedies occur.
Educational institutions, too, need to rethink their role. Producing degree holders alone is not enough. A student must also learn empathy, discipline and social responsibility. Character building is equally as important as career building.
Blaming one section of society alone will not solve the problem. Parents, teachers, religious leaders, the media and society at large all share responsibility. We need to create an atmosphere where kindness is respected, truth is valued and humanity comes before selfish interests.
A society does not collapse suddenly. It weakens slowly when moral values begin to fade. If we ignore these warning signs today, future generations may inherit a world with progress in machines but poverty in human values. The need of the hour is not only development but also moral awakening.
The author is a prominent trade union leader representing the teaching fraternity and is currently the District President of the JK Teachers Association, Baramulla. He can be contacted at mushtaqbhat1312@gmail.com.
