Treating crime at the source

WITH urbanisation and affordability of television and dish antenna connection in lower middle class homes and even slums, too many youngsters are exposed to visions of luxurious life or decadence. They have ideas about consumerism, better standard of living and the materialistic way of life. They see in thrillers, in cinema houses and on TV, how snatchers and grabbers turn rich overnight. They also see the lifestyle of the rich and the very rich in their own society. All these make them crave for the same material goods and the pleasures. But when they cannot satisfy their fantasies, many of them engage in crimes -- the short-cut to fulfill their dreams.

Therefore, there is need for deep thinking and action. At least, the local mass media should should regularly focus on these issues to create the awareness about our past social life, how good it was -- free from drugs, violence and crimes. Teachers at academic institutions may talk to their pupils increasingly about these things. Compulsory moral studies, up to a certain level, need to be introduced. The press should adopt a policy of writing more frequently and regularly on these issues. Philanthropic organisations and citizens' forums can launch a social movement in this regard. The businesses can make greater efforts to create more employment which can considerably cure the frustration of the youth.

Shamim Ahmad

Dhanmondi, Dhaka