DR SHEIKH MOHD SALEEM
National Consultant based in New Delhi
Bullying, a pervasive form of aggressive behavior, has long been a silent epidemic plaguing schools across the globe, and Kashmir is no exception. This complex issue extends far beyond mere childhood taunts or harmless pranks, inflicting profound and lasting consequences on the mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being of students.
While several Indian states have taken proactive measures to combat bullying in schools, Kashmir has been lagging behind in addressing this critical issue. The unique socio-political challenges faced by the region, coupled with limited resources and awareness, have hindered efforts to tackle bullying effectively. However, the time has come to break the silence and confront this epidemic head-on.
The Scale of the Problem
Recent studies have shed light on the alarming prevalence of bullying in Kashmir’s schools. A 2019 study reported that the prevalence rates of peer victimization among male and female secondary school students were staggeringly high – 25.8% were victims, 14.0% were bullies, 15.7% were bully-victims, and 44.6% were neutral. Notably, the study found no significant difference in bullying across different socio-economic groups, suggesting that this issue cuts across all segments of society.
Another study conducted in 2016 revealed that out of 100 school children in Kashmir, a staggering 42% were bullied one or more times a day, 31% were bullied one or more times a week, 14% were bullied one or more times a year, and 12% were bullied one or more times a month. The data also showed that 54% of school children had reported bullying, while 46% had not reported it to anyone, highlighting the need for better reporting and support mechanisms.
The Multifaceted Nature of Bullying
Bullying can take various forms, each with its own devastating consequences. The study revealed that 47% of children were bullied by peers, 33% by teachers, 32% by seniors, and 2% by others. Alarmingly, the most common place for bullying was in classrooms, with 70% of victims bullied there, followed by playgrounds (30%), school entrances (19%), computer rooms (12%), and other school areas.
The types of bullying experienced by Kashmiri students were varied, with 96% experiencing verbal bullying, 79% experiencing indirect bullying, 76% experiencing physical bullying, 45% experiencing cyberbullying, and 23% experiencing sexual bullying. These statistics underscore the pervasive nature of bullying and the urgent need for comprehensive intervention strategies.
The Silent Toll
The impact of bullying on victims is far-reaching and can have devastating consequences. Victims often suffer from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and even suicidal ideation. A study by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reported that bullying was a contributing factor in nearly 7% of student suicides in India in 2020. In Kashmir, where mental health resources are often limited, the consequences of bullying can be particularly severe.
Bullying can also have a ripple effect on the broader school community. Bystanders who witness bullying can experience psychological distress, and the overall school climate can be negatively impacted, hindering the learning and development of all students.
A Call to Action
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the School Education Department (SED) of Kashmir has taken a significant step by deciding to put a check on bullying and cyberbullying of school children in April 2024. The department has mandated that schools adopt policies to help prevent bullying and cyberbullying, recognizing the profound impact these issues have on the well-being and development of students.
The initiatives proposed by the SED include school climate initiatives and support for digital citizenship and positive character development, which can help bring about a positive change in the school environment. These measures aim to foster a culture of respect, empathy, and inclusivity, while also equipping students with the skills and knowledge to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.
Addressing bullying in Kashmir requires a multifaceted approach involving students, parents, teachers, and the broader community. Schools must implement comprehensive anti-bullying policies, promote awareness and education, and provide support systems for both victims and perpetrators. Counseling services and mental health resources should be made available to help students cope with the trauma of bullying and the broader challenges they face in the region.
Learning from Success Stories
While the initiative taken by the School Education Department is a step in the right direction, sustained efforts from all stakeholders are essential. Kashmir can learn from successful anti-bullying initiatives implemented in other parts of the country and the world.
For instance, the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program, developed in Norway, has been adopted in several countries and has proven effective in reducing bullying incidents by up to 50%. This program focuses on creating a positive school climate, establishing clear rules and consequences for bullying behavior, and involving parents and the broader community in prevention efforts.
In India, states like Karnataka have implemented comprehensive anti-bullying policies, while Tamil Nadu has introduced a dedicated helpline for students to report instances of bullying. These initiatives have shown promising results and can serve as models for Kashmir to adapt and build upon.
Addressing the Root Causes
It is also crucial to address the root causes of bullying, such as toxic social norms, gender stereotypes, lack of empathy and emotional intelligence among children, and the trauma of living in a conflict zone. By fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity, and addressing the broader challenges faced by the people of Kashmir, we can create a safer and more nurturing environment for our children to learn and thrive.
Breaking the Cycle
Bullying is not just a school issue; it is a societal problem that demands collective action. By fostering a culture of respect, empathy, and inclusivity, and addressing the broader challenges faced by the people of Kashmir, we can create a safer and more nurturing environment for our children to learn and thrive.
The time to act is now. Our children’s well-being and the future of our society depend on breaking the silence and confronting bullying head-on. With collective action and a shared commitment to creating a safer and more inclusive learning environment, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of our children.
It is time to break the cycle of violence and trauma that has plagued Kashmir for far too long. By empowering our youth with the tools and support they need to navigate the challenges of bullying, we can pave the way for a brighter future – one where every child feels safe, valued, and able to reach their full potential.
The silent epidemic of bullying has gone unchecked for too long, but together, we can create a resounding chorus of change, echoing through the halls of our schools and beyond. It is time to raise our voices, stand united, and declare that bullying will no longer be tolerated in our communities. Our children deserve nothing less.
