The Peshawar school attack, in which about 130 innocent children were murdered in cold blood, shook the world about the extent to which hatred can infest the mind. Can feelings of revenge be so strong that they make humans forget humanity? What do such incidents augur for the world? How can this be dealt with? Students express their views:
Archanaa G., M.A. Communication, M.O.P. Vaishnav College for Women, Chennai
It is extremely sad that children are entrapped in the wars between adults. People today are ready to go to any length to get what they want. Instead of playing blame games after such incidents, steps need to be taken to enforce stricter laws and to foster feelings of brotherhood among people.
Siddhi Kolwadkar, Architecture, Priyadarshini Institute of Architecture and Design Studies, Nagpur
There is no religion in the world whose ideology justifies the killing of innocent children. Due to such incidents, children are missing out on a carefree childhood, which is essential for their positive development.
Tasmin Kurien, B.A. English, Stella Maris College, Chennai
An eye for an eye cannot be a solution to these problems. It is important to do away with certain negative stereotypes as sometimes portrayed in the media. Instances of the hero beating up villains shown in movies can induce violent behaviour in youngsters. It is important to sensitively portray issues and idols in movies as these are watched by a large number of people and can be very influential.
Shubharthi Das, B.A. L.L.B., National Law University, Jodhpur
Such incidents are not unprecedented in history. People have stopped questioning and blindly follow orders given to them. The meaning of being humane has been lost. So much so that man forgets that a child is born with no sin. If such things are to be prevented in future, then the education system should include teaching children to “live for others.”
Ashmini Balakrishnan, M.A. H.R.M. Women’s Christian College, Chennai
Usually, one thinks of revenge when one is wronged against. But killing innocent children is inexplicable. It is as much an act of cowardice as of hatred. It is hard to believe that people can nurture hatred to this level. Proper upbringing of children is important to ensure that they don't grow up to harbour negative feelings.
