Treating crimes at the source

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WITH urbanisation and affordability of television and dish antenna connection in the homes of the lower middle class and even slum dwellers, too many youngsters these days have got exposed to the lives of the very affluent families and their attending decadence. They have ideas about consumerism, better standard of living and the materialistic way of life. They see thrillers at the cinemas and on TV in which snatchers and grabbers turn rich overnight. They also watch the lifestyles of the rich and the very rich in their own society. All these exposures make them crave for the same material goods and pleasures. But when they cannot satisfy their cravings in the real world, it is then that many of them seek the fastest way to fulfil their dreams by engaging in crime. Explaining the recent rise in heinous crimes in the country such as kidnapping for ransom, sociologists who were interviewed by the media also pointed to the above reasons.
Therefore, there is the need for deep thinking and acting. At least in the local mass media, there should more regular focuses on these issues and publicity about how good our social lives used to be in the past -- free from drugs, violence and crime. 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 and businesses and others can make greater efforts to create more employment which can considerably cure the frustration of the youth.
Samira Haque
North South University
Dhaka