But Why Aman Munjal May 30, 2024

Beyond the Hashtag Wars: Why We Need Peace, Not Sides, in the Israel-Palestine Discourse

The recent escalation of the Israel-Palestine conflict has sparked heated discussions on social media, with Indians divided in their online support. But here’s the sobering truth – most of us lack firsthand knowledge of the situation, often fueled by biased narratives and emotional appeals. This begs the question: isn’t there a more productive way to engage with such complex issues?

Peace, Not Sides

Instead of getting sucked into online battles, let’s focus on what truly matters – world peace. The current social media trend not only distracts from India’s pressing domestic issues, but also fosters a culture of “us vs. them” that ultimately hinders productive dialogue. We’ve even seen instances of people resorting to boycotting products from both Israel and Palestine, a reaction fueled by a lack of complete information. The impact these actions of of boycott have on the common people of these countries is unknown, who just do not have control on the political escalations, why make them suffer.

Turning Inward: India’s Social Struggles

India, a nation with immense potential, grapples with its own set of challenges. Here are some areas that deserve our immediate attention, along with some concerning statistics:

Pollution: A staggering 99% of India’s population breathes air exceeding WHO air quality guidelines. This toxic air is linked to a multitude of health problems, including respiratory illnesses, heart disease, and cancer.
Healthcare Crisis: India’s doctor-to-patient ratio stands at an abysmal 1:1100, far below the WHO recommendation. This lack of access to quality healthcare significantly impacts the well-being of millions.
Poverty: Despite economic growth, millions in India still struggle below the national poverty line. A 2020 World Bank report estimates that 13.4% of the population lives on less than $1.90 a day.
Education Gap: While literacy rates are improving, India still faces a significant educational disparity. A 2018 report by UNESCO highlights the need to address issues like gender inequality and lack of access to quality education, especially in rural areas.

Action Over Amplification

Imagine if the energy spent on online debates was channeled towards raising awareness about these critical issues. We could be demanding better air quality, advocating for accessible healthcare, supporting initiatives to alleviate poverty, and promoting quality education for all.

The Power of Informed Action

Let’s not become pawns in a global social media game. Instead, let’s educate ourselves on complex international issues, but prioritize tackling the social injustices plaguing our own nation. By uniting for peace within and beyond our borders, we can create a more positive and impactful change.

What can you do?

Support local NGOs working on social issues in India.
Volunteer your time or resources to causes you care about.
Educate yourself on the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict before forming an opinion.
Use social media responsibly by promoting peace and fact-based discussions.

Remember, true progress lies in taking action, not sides. Let’s work together to build a better future, for India and for the world.