SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Civil Society (JKCS) has voiced serious concern over what it describes as a dangerous and unethical trend in digital media, wherein certain self-styled YouTubers and unregulated platforms are accused of exploiting unaware individuals to stir controversy for online popularity.
In a strongly worded statement, JKCS Chairman Imtiyaz Rashid Chashti said that in the name of “ground reporting” and “public opinion,” some content creators are deliberately seeking provocative statements on sensitive national and geopolitical matters from unsuspecting citizens, including auto-rickshaw drivers, elderly women, street vendors, and even school children.
“These individuals, often equipped with cameras and loaded questions, are not informing the public—they’re baiting vulnerable people into making comments that can be sensationalised and taken out of context,” Chashti said. “This pursuit of viral content is not only unethical but a direct threat to public peace, national security, and communal harmony.”
The JKCS warned that this pattern of media manipulation is undermining public trust and journalistic integrity. By exploiting the ignorance or innocence of common citizens, these so-called reporters risk inflaming tensions and misrepresenting communities or regions, especially in a place as sensitive as Jammu and Kashmir.
“This isn’t journalism. It’s exploitation,” the JKCS stated, urging the public to exercise caution and refrain from participating in unverified or suspicious media interactions.
Chashti appealed to authorities and regulators to closely monitor such activities and take legal action where necessary, especially in instances where content creation crosses into incitement or endangers public order. He also called on professional journalists and media outlets to uphold ethical standards and push back against such irresponsible practices.
“At a time when the nation requires unity and informed dialogue, the spread of sensationalist, misleading content only serves to divide and destabilise,” the JKCS said.
Concluding with a call to conscience, the civil society body reminded all stakeholders—citizens, creators, and institutions alike—to respect one another, stay united, and stand for peace in the face of growing digital noise and provocation.
