Harassing children for bytes is plumbing a new low

Representational images. Pic/iStock

A minor boy has been seen answering questions about the Pahalgam attack in a video making the rounds on social media.

The little boy is surrounded by ‘booms' - microphones used by television reporters - and is being asked many details about the Kashmir terror attack. He is answering in some detail, including how Hindus and Muslims were separated on the basis of their religion and the former were shot dead. Some comments are seen below the video like: this innocent boy is answering questions. Other comments have touched upon his bravery. Yet others implore the media not to make victims relive traumatic experiences.

It is time we stop asking children to answer these questions. It is obvious that the boy is in shock and because of the trauma, he is simply answering in great detail about what transpired. This paper has highlighted how victims of the bloody carnage and their families will need extensive counselling. They may heal physically, but they will need to heal mentally and emotionally too, and this will take much longer.

With that said and understood, one cannot have the media talking to little children, even if they are ‘willing' to give details about the crime. The religion-based attack is going to be part of this child's growing years. It is sure to have a profound impact on his entire life. The questions, if need be, have to be asked by experts, doctors as part of the counselling process. He cannot be grilled because of viewing and social media.

This must apply to all media houses. Leave minors alone, even if they want to answer questions or have information. Get your background and details from credible, adult sources. Child rights organisations may need to step in.