Context:
The internet has revolutionized social communication, especially for young people, creating a whole new realm of interaction. While technology has undeniably improved human lives, its negative aspects cannot be overlooked.
Relevance:
GS3-
- Basics of Cyber Security
- Media and Social Networking Sites
Mains Question:
Comment upon the rising incidents of cyberbullying in India. What is the legislative and institutional framework in this regard and what more needs to be done to counter it? (15 Marks, 250 Words).
Negative Effects of Technology:
- Technological advancements have led to a significant increase in health issues and have, paradoxically, isolated individuals from society instead of fostering connections.
- Gen Z, in particular, is experiencing sleep deprivation and is increasingly vulnerable to online bullying, known as cyberbullying. This form of bullying is on the rise, with more users falling victim to it.
Cyberbullying:
- Cyberbullying entails utilizing electronic communication to intimidate or threaten an individual.
- This can involve sending intimidating messages or posting harassing pictures or videos.
- Various social platforms like chat rooms, blogs, and instant messaging are utilized for cyberbullying.
- Examples of cyberbullying include spreading hurtful rumors or comments on an individual’s online updates, pictures, or videos, sharing embarrassing photographs without consent, excluding individuals from diverse backgrounds from online groups, and unlawfully accessing someone’s account to send unwanted or inappropriate messages.
- Cyberbullying is considered a punishable offense under the Information Technology Act of 2000 and the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
- The repercussions of cyberbullying can be severe, leading to depression, anxiety, and even fear of using technology. It can profoundly affect young minds, sometimes even escalating to threats of physical harm.
- Victims may struggle to focus and achieve personal goals due to the emotional toll it takes on them.
- Additionally, once something is posted online, it can remain indefinitely, exacerbating the impact of cyberbullying.
Cyberbullying in India:
- India holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest cyberbullying rate globally, with over 85% of children reporting experiencing it. Additionally, Indian children were found to cyberbully others twice as frequently as children worldwide.
- Specifically, 46% of Indian children reported cyberbullying strangers, compared to 17% globally, while 48% admitted to cyberbullying individuals they knew, in contrast to 21% in other countries.
- The most common forms of cyberbullying reported in India were spreading false rumors (39%), exclusion from online chats or groups (35%), and name-calling (34%).
Legislative Framework Governing Cyberbullying in India:
- The Information Technology Act, 2000 (amended in 2008) is a legislative framework in India that addresses internet crimes and their corresponding penalties.
- Section 66(A), for instance, previously addressed the transmission of derogatory or abusive content through social media platforms but was deemed unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in 2015 due to its infringement on freedom of expression.
- Other sections such as 66(D), 66(E), and 67 outline penalties for cyberbullying actions, including misuse of personal information, dissemination of inappropriate content, or posting offensive material on social media platforms.
- The Indian Penal Code (IPC), India’s criminal law, similarly lacks explicit laws targeting cyberbullying. Nevertheless, several IPC sections can be applied to bullying offenses.
- For instance, Section 507 pertains to threats or coercion, Section 354(C) concerns the unauthorized photography of women, and Section 499 penalizes those who disseminate derogatory communications, which may encompass cyberbullying on social media platforms.
- The Ministry of Women and Child Development’s press release on ‘Digital Exploitation of Children’ underscores the punitive measures outlined in IPC sections 354A and 354D against cyberbullying and cyberstalking targeting women.
- Section 354D of the IPC defines stalking as persistent attempts by a person, despite a woman’s clear disinterest, to foster personal interaction or monitor her online activities, encompassing both offline and online stalking without distinction.
- The Indian government has acknowledged the issue of cyberbullying and has initiated measures to tackle it. The Ministry of Home Affairs introduced the Cyber Crime Prevention Against Women and Children (CCPWC) initiative with the objective of creating a safe online environment for children. This initiative offers a helpline and an online portal where children can report cyberbullying anonymously.
- Furthermore, the Ministry of Home Affairs has launched the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal to facilitate the reporting of cybercrimes, including cyberbullying, by citizens and ensure swift action is taken.
Way Forward:
- It is crucial to educate children and their parents about the safe use of the internet and to ensure that everyone understands the potential risks associated with online connectivity.
- To improve the mental well-being of young people, it’s crucial to raise awareness about the challenges stemming from the digital realm.
- Currently, preventing cyberbullying is of utmost importance and requires constant monitoring and intervention. Staying updated on preventive measures and security protocols in the digital realm to better protect oneself online is the initial step.
- Implementing measures such as refraining from sharing personal information (such as home address, phone numbers, and banking details) online, avoiding posting personal photographs, and refraining from discussing private matters on social media can help mitigate risks.
- Additionally, individuals should avoid sharing internet passwords and account details and refrain from clicking on suspicious links or spam messages to reduce the likelihood of becoming victims of cyberbullying.
- Furthermore, parents play a vital role in educating their children about cyberbullying. Unlike traditional forms of bullying, which often occurred in school settings, cyberbullying poses unique dangers as it takes place online.
- Parents should utilize parental control applications to monitor their child’s online activities and foster open communication so that children feel comfortable discussing instances of bullying with them.
- It’s essential for parents to familiarize themselves with various online platforms, including social networking and chatting, to better understand the digital landscape and support their children effectively.
- In the era of artificial intelligence, it’s crucial to exercise caution to safeguard against cyber-attacks. Being bullied through digital means can have severe and potentially fatal consequences.
- While technology has undoubtedly simplified learning and earning opportunities for everyone, it’s equally essential to use it responsibly and judiciously.
Conclusion:
It’s imperative to avoid becoming a victim of cyberbullying. Treating all individuals encountered online with respect is the best defense against such harassment. Cyberbullying isn’t merely a form of amusement but a significant issue that can inflict lasting emotional and psychological damage.
