Yasin Malik
Mushal Hussain Malik, wife of Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) chief Yasin Malik, has written a letter to the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, urging him to raise the issue of her jailed husband in Parliament.

On the issue of human rights and women empowerment, Mushal, former assistant to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, in her letter has drawn his attention to the ongoing case against Malik in a three-decade-old sedition charge.

Kashmiri separatist leader Malik is himself arguing the petition filed against him by the NIA in the Delhi High Court in this case related to terrorist money laundering. The NIA has filed an appeal in this case while requesting the court to give the death penalty to Malik.

The NIA had filed a charge sheet against several persons including Malik in this 2017 case. In 2022, a lower court sentenced Malik to life imprisonment. Yasin Malik has reportedly been on an indefinite hunger strike since November 2 in protest against inhuman treatment in jail. This hunger strike will further adversely affect Malik’s health. It will endanger the life of a person who chooses to follow the path of non-violence by giving up arms.

Mushal said, ‘Malik is being tried for waging war against India in a 35-year-old case and now the NIA is seeking the death penalty for him in fabricated cases registered against him’.
Ruchir Shukla (Hindi News)

Fear of Missing Out
The term “FOMO” or “Fear of Missing Out” was introduced in 2004 as a way to describe the anxiety that arises from the fear of missing out on experiences, events, or opportunities. This phenomenon has been gaining traction in India, especially among the younger generation. With the growth of social media platforms and the desire to be constantly connected, Indians have increasingly become victims of FOMO.

India’s vibrant and diverse culture, with its numerous festivals, events, and gatherings, has always been a hub of social interactions. However, the increasing prevalence of FOMO has led to an unhealthy obsession with wanting to attend every event and engage in every activity. This, in turn, has resulted in individuals feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and unable to take a step back and enjoy the moments they are already experiencing.

One prime example of FOMO in the Indian context is the rise of social media influencers. With millions of followers, these individuals have the power to make or break a trend. The pressure to keep up with their every move has led to fans feeling the constant need to be in the loop. This drives them to attend every event, wear the latest fashion, and try out new experiences just to stay connected and relevant.

Another example is the craze surrounding New Year’s Eve parties in India. Every year, people across the country compete to find the most extravagant and exclusive party to attend. In cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, FOMO has become a major factor in the high demand for tickets to these events, often leading to sell-outs and a heightened sense of exclusivity.

In the business world, FOMO has also played a role in the rapid growth of the startup ecosystem in India. With numerous start-up events, conferences, and networking opportunities, entrepreneurs and investors are constantly trying to stay ahead of the curve. This has led to a cutthroat competition, where missing out on a single event or opportunity could mean losing out on a game-changing connection or investment.

As FOMO continues to grip the Indian society, it is crucial to understand its implications and find ways to mitigate its impact. Mental health experts suggest focusing on self-awareness and setting realistic goals to combat FOMO. By taking a step back and evaluating the importance of experiences, individuals can make more informed decisions about their activities and avoid the pitfalls of constant FOMO.

FOMO is a phenomenon that has taken root in India, driven by the desire to be connected and relevant in a fast-paced, ever-changing world. It is essential for individuals and society as a whole to recognize the potential negative consequences of FOMO and find ways to strike a balance between staying connected and maintaining a healthy, fulfilling life.
T S Karthik, Chennai

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Frontier
Vol 57, No. 22, Nov 24 - 30, 2024