Do you agree with the view that social media is a ‘double edged sword’? Discuss in the context of its impact on Indian society.

Benefit of social media

1. provide voice to most vulnerable in society eg #MeToo , #Blacks Right Matter
2. generates awareness on issue eg # Jai Bheem for Dalit conciousness on twitter.
3. Creative & Influencer economy.
4. Ensuring Accountability of government eg Say no to corruption trend on instagram

(5) Real Time dissemination of information → During operation Sindoor (6) feedback on social issue by people (online democracy)

Issues (1) Digital Divide < 38% - Rural users (IAMAI) 63% - Urban users (2) Echo chambers on social media → Amplify hate, bias & prejudices (3) Discrimination against vulnerable section → sharing Deep fake of women (4) e-Mental Health issue → Suicide by Priyanshu yadav (ujjain) due to bullying on social media (5) Anonymous Nature & Rotfare → Violation of dignity and personal integrity of people

⑥ Cyber attacks → (e.g) Tiktok Data leak ⑦ Misinformation & Disinformation on social media (e.g) - Campaign by Pakistan during Op. Sindoor ⑧ Amplify social divides due to filter bubbling on social media ⑨ Micro-Targetting and surveillance capitalism → violates Privacy of individual (Article 21)

Way forward ① Due Diligence by SM platform ② fact checking of info (e.g) PIB FCU. ③ Risk Based Regulation