Justice’s advice to the Gen Z

Communication systems have undergone a major revolution over the past decade. Many traditional practices that existed for centuries have been completely changed. The attitudes and outlook of different generations have also undergone changes that were once unimaginable. However, not all of these changes can be considered positive. The negative effects of this transformation are also significant, and society is experiencing their consequences in many ways.

Justice S. Muralidhar’s advice to the Gen Z generation on this issue is valuable and highly relevant. He has said what society has been wanting to hear. “Keep your mobile phone aside for at least an hour every day. Create offline clubs without being connected to phones.” These words of advice from the former Chief Justice of the Orissa High Court to the Gen Z are worth taking seriously. He has also highlighted the disturbing reality that even human rights and safety are under threat in the cyber age.

Justice Muralidhar presented one of the major threats facing society in a clear and appropriate manner. His message was put across in a way that even the younger generation could understand and accept.

Every moment of our lives is being recorded on the internet. Even human rights are not completely safe in the cyber world. He raised these concerns at a seminar organised by the Human Rights Commission on law, technology and human rights.

We live in a digital world where almost all personal information is linked through an Aadhaar number. Although privacy has legal protection, enforcing those protections remains difficult. Much of our personal data is controlled by multinational companies, which may not always come under Indian law. Getting justice in cases of digital violations can also take time. A good way to address this is to stay away from the digital world for at least an hour every day, he said. He also suggested using that time to read a newspaper.

People who have reached the highest levels of life and achievement have often known the value and pleasure of reading newspapers.

Scientific studies have shown that regular newspaper reading can contribute to personality development, improve language skills and, to some extent, help prevent memory decline. Mobile phones and digital technologies have become an essential part of modern life. The answer is not to reject them, but to use them positively and responsibly. It is not just the younger generation that is becoming increasingly dependent on mobile phones. People who spend much of their time alone at home can also become trapped in excessive phone use. This can affect both their physical and mental well-being. Reading newspapers can be a useful way to break away from this unhealthy habit. Justice Muralidhar’s constructive advice to society could offer an answer to many of the negative trends emerging in the digital age.