Social networking sites like Facebook are propelling movements and are acting as catalysts for change

Social lives of the youth today depend largely on logging onto their favourite networking sites, and while the flip side is often highlighted, the good goes unnoticed.

Real conversations in real time have given way to easier screen dialogue in networking portals. That’s not all, they are also sparking off movements and becoming an agent of change. And the fact that Gen Y is glued to it makes it a potent tool to spread awareness and transform.

Facebook, a popular networking site, has many news groups which enables youngsters to do their bit and support a cause. Bangalore’s youth is no different; they have their share of groups on the site with a clear agenda. The most recent is the Stop Violence Against Women group on Facebook. The group is planning to hold a discussion forum on March 7. Neethi Mahesh, an active member, says, “Many instances of eve-teasing in the city have compelled us to approach the higher authorities for a solution. We will be meeting the Commissioner of Police or the DGP to discuss and work out a viable solution.”

The Save Coffee House campaign on Facebook has members not only from the city but also those who have been there someday and savoured the ambience. The group also has posts asking people to find an alternative place for them on MG Road. Dhruv Aditya Dave, a student from the city who initiated a campaign on animal rights called Against Killing Dogs in Bangalore, says, “Networking sites offered me the perfect avenue to start my animal rights movement to alert people about the outrageous killing of street dogs. It was brought to the notice of many people who signed petitions, attended awareness programmes and spread the word further. Within a few weeks, hundreds of people joined in and raised their voice against it.”

The Big Bangalore Protest Unit on Facebook, a group formed to protest against the ban on live music bands and the 11.30 pm curfew on nightlife in the city, has 5,844 members. Madhusudan Atri, a member of this group, says, “Networking sites provide a forum for like-minded people to voice their opinion, be pro-active and usher in change.”

While the debate on whether virtual space is blurring reality continues, we say look at the brighter side.

Shruti Goutham/ DNA-Daily News & Analysis Source: 3D Syndication