Mariya Noor
Kashmirhas long been embroiled in a complex socio-political struggle. At the heart of this struggle is the quest for self-identity and autonomy, but in recent years, a new dimension has emerged – the youth ideology. This radical paradigm has been significantly influenced by various factors, including the socio-political context, Terrorist groups, information dissemination, religious identity, and the desperate need for economic and social opportunities. Let’s understand the evolving landscape of Kashmir’s youth ideology and the importance of community and family interventions in shaping it.
The socio-political context in Kashmir is a crucible for shaping youth ideology. Decades of unrest and violence have deeply affected the collective psyche of Kashmiri youth. The region’s political landscape and outside interference was responsible behind sense of alienation and frustration among the youth, which often becomes a fertile ground for radicalization. The feeling of not being heard and the absence of a fair political system have pushed many young Kashmiris towards radicalism, seeking a more immediate path to express their grievances. But after the abrogation of Special Status things are now going in a right direction. The presence and influence of terroristsgroups in Kashmir have played a significant role in shaping the youth ideology. These groups used to offer a sense of belonging and purpose to disenchanted youth. Young individuals were often drawn to these organizations, lured by promises of a better future or the allure of violence as a means to bring about change. The continued support from external actors has enabled these groups to maintain a presence in the region, perpetuating the cycle of violence and radicalization but Kashmiri youth has understood the difference between right and Wrong. Now days youth are not inclined towards violence instead they are working hard to build their carrier and contribute in peace building initiatives of the government.
The digital age has transformed the way information is disseminated and consumed, and Kashmir is no exception. The internet and social media have become powerful tools for the spread of radical ideologies. Young Kashmiris have easy access to a wide array of information, from extremist propaganda to narratives promoting violence as a solution. This ease of access has made it challenging to counteract radicalization. Moreover, the anonymity and reach provided by online platforms have allowed extremist ideologies to spread rapidly, drawing in impressionable youth.Also the religious identity and polarization have played a critical role in shaping the youth ideology in Kashmir. The region’s diverse religious composition has been a source of tension for years, and this tension has been exploited by various actors. For some, religion becomes a driving force for radicalization, as they view their struggle through the lens of religious identity. On the other hand, religious polarization further deepens divisions, making it difficult for communities to come together and address the core issues facing Kashmir.One of the key drivers of radicalization among Kashmiri youth was the lack of economic and social opportunities. The joblessness has hindered economic development in the region, leading to high levels of unemployment, particularly among the youth. A bleak economic outlook, coupled with a feeling of hopelessness, pushes some young Kashmiris towards radical ideologies as a means to address their grievances. Therefore, addressing economic disparities and providing avenues for social development is crucial in curbing radicalization. To counter the radical paradigm that has taken root among Kashmir’s youth, community and family interventions are imperative. Families play a pivotal role in the lives of young individuals and can act as a first line of defense against radicalization. Strengthening family bonds and fostering open lines of communication can help parents guide their children away from the path of extremism.Community engagement programs, designed to provide a sense of belonging and purpose, can be instrumental in countering radicalization. These initiatives offer alternatives toterror groups, creating spaces for young Kashmiris to express their grievances and aspirations in a constructive manner.
It is imperative to address these factors holistically and implement community and family interventions to steer the youth away from radicalization and towards a path of peace, prosperity, and meaningful engagement in the future of Kashmir.
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