ADVOCATE FALAK JAN
Vlogging, or video blogging, has witnessed an exponential rise in popularity among the youth in the Kashmir Valley. What started as a creative outlet to tell stories, share experiences, and showcase the beauty of the region has now become a dominant trend on social media platforms. Many young vloggers are utilizing their platforms for meaningful purposes, such as promoting tourism, documenting the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir, and addressing social issues. However, alongside this positive growth, there has been a concerning rise in irresponsible Vlogging practices that negatively impact society.

Some vloggers, in their pursuit of fame, views, and likes, have resorted to sensationalism, risking public safety, damaging public property, and creating content that sets a poor example for impressionable audiences. This trend raises important questions about the impact of Vlogging on societal values, public safety, and cultural preservation in the region.
The Positive Side of Vlogging
The creative use of Vlogging in Kashmir has undoubtedly brought attention to the region’s beauty and resilience. Many young content creators are showcasing the picturesque landscapes, promoting tourism, and sharing untold stories of the valley’s traditions, history, and people.
Tourism Promotion: Vloggers highlighting the serene beauty of Kashmir have played a key role in reviving tourism in the region. By sharing scenic views, local cuisine, and cultural festivals, they invite travellers from around the world to experience Kashmir’s rich offerings.
Cultural Documentation: Many vloggers are using their platforms to preserve and promote Kashmiri culture. They explore traditional crafts, music, and folklore, bringing visibility to practices that are at risk of fading away in the modern age.
Social Awareness: Creators also highlight critical social and environmental issues, such as climate change, deforestation, and education, using Vlogging as a tool for advocacy.
These efforts have positioned Vlogging as a medium of inspiration and education, proving its potential to make a positive impact on society.
The Darker Side: Sensationalism and Irresponsibility
Despite these positive contributions, a troubling trend has emerged. Many vloggers prioritize virality over responsibility, engaging in activities that harm society, disrupt public spaces, and influence impressionable audiences negatively.
Public Nuisance and Vandalism
In the quest to stand out, some vloggers have resorted to damaging public property, defacing walls, and even vandalizing historical or religious sites. These actions not only disrespect the local community but also tarnish the image of Kashmir. Public spaces such as parks, markets, and streets are often used irresponsibly as backdrops for disruptive activities, causing inconvenience to citizens.
Risky and Unsanitary Stunts
A growing number of vloggers perform dangerous stunts or create sensational content in unhygienic areas, such as drains or garbage dumps, solely for shock value. These acts pose significant health and safety risks, both to the vloggers themselves and to their impressionable viewers.
Negative Influence on Children
Children and teenagers, who form a large portion of the audience for vlogs, are especially vulnerable to imitating harmful behaviours. When they see their favourite vloggers engaging in risky or irresponsible activities, they may replicate these actions without fully understanding the consequences, leading to a rise in unsafe practices among the youth.
Impact on Society
The negative aspects of irresponsible Vlogging have far-reaching implications for society:
Erosion of Social Values: The pursuit of fame at any cost has led some vloggers to ignore societal norms and ethical boundaries, eroding cultural and moral values.
Damage to Public Property: The defacement of public spaces and historical sites not only disrupts community life but also imposes financial burdens on taxpayers for repairs and maintenance.
Normalization of Risky Behaviour: Content glorifying dangerous stunts and reckless acts encourages viewers to emulate such behaviour, creating a cycle of irresponsibility.
Loss of Credibility for Genuine Creators: The rise of sensationalism overshadows the efforts of vloggers who produce meaningful and positive content, diminishing the credibility of the entire community of content creators.
Laws Governing Irresponsible Vlogging
While there are no specific laws targeting Vlogging in India, several existing legal frameworks apply to actions commonly associated with irresponsible content creation:
The Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984:This act makes vandalism and the destruction of public property a criminal offense. Vloggers who deface public spaces, monuments, or infrastructure can face imprisonment or fines under this law.
Indian Penal Code (IPC) Provisions: a) Section 268 (Public Nuisance): Penalizes acts that cause annoyance or harm to the public, including disruptive filming practices in public spaces. b) Section 336 (Endangering Safety): Covers acts that put the lives or safety of others at risk, such as performing dangerous stunts. c) Section 447 (Criminal Trespass): Prohibits entering private or restricted areas without permission, which is often violated during unauthorized filming.
The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958: Protects historical monuments and sites from defacement or misuse. Vloggers misusing these locations for sensational content can face legal action under this act.
The Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000: Posting harmful or offensive content online may attract penalties under this law, which regulates digital activities.
Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. This act penalizes reckless or dangerous activities on roads, including irresponsible Vlogging.
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.This law safeguards wildlife and prohibits acts that disturb or harm animals and their habitats. Vlogging activities that involve disturbing wildlife in forests or protected areas.
Environment Protection Act, 1986.This act penalizes activities that harm the environment. Irresponsible acts like dumping waste or polluting natural habitats while filming.
Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.These rules address disturbances caused by loud music or noise during filming. Vlogging with loudspeakers, shouting, or creating excessive noise in public areas.
Cinematograph Act, 1952.This law governs content creation and exhibition: Vloggers creating content that promotes violence, obscenity, or endangers public order.
- Local Municipal Laws and Permits .Municipal corporations and local bodies often have specific rules governing the use of public spaces for filming. Example: Unauthorized use of parks, streets, or markets for Vlogging without prior permission.
These legal provisions emphasize the need for vloggers to adhere to ethical and legal boundaries while creating content.
A Path Toward Positive Change
To address the challenges posed by irresponsible Vlogging, a collaborative effort from vloggers, viewers, and authorities is essential.
Promoting Ethical Content Creation
Vloggers must recognize their social responsibility and use their platforms to create meaningful and constructive content. By focusing on educational and inspirational themes, they can set an example for their peers and viewers.
Stronger Enforcement of Laws
Authorities must take a proactive approach in enforcing existing laws to curb vandalism, public nuisance, and other harmful behaviours associated with Vlogging. Social media platforms should also be held accountable for monitoring and removing harmful content.
Community Awareness and Parental Guidance
Parents and community leaders play a critical role in guiding young viewers to consume content responsibly. Educational campaigns can help raise awareness about the potential dangers of imitating harmful vlogs.
Encouraging Positive Role Models
Highlighting the achievements of responsible vloggers who create meaningful content can inspire others to follow in their footsteps. Recognizing and rewarding ethical creators can further motivate the youth to prioritize quality over sensationalism.
Introduction of Specific Laws for Digital Content Creation
Given the rise of Vlogging as a prominent medium, there is a growing need for laws tailored specifically to regulate online content creation. Such legislation could address issues like public safety, ethical boundaries, and the protection of cultural heritage.
Public opinion:
Positive Opinions - A Platform for Creativity
Many locals admire how young people are using Vlogging to express themselves, showcase their talents, and promote Kashmir’s beauty.
“Our youth are finally finding a voice and using it to highlight the rich culture and breath-taking landscapes of the valley. It’s inspiring.” – A school teacher in Srinagar. - Promoting Tourism
Residents in tourism-dependent areas appreciate vloggers for attracting visitors to Kashmir, showcasing its unique experiences, and contributing to the local economy.
“These videos are reaching people all over the world. Tourists are now coming to places they hadn’t even heard of before.” – A houseboat owner on Dal Lake. - Challenging Misconceptions
Many people see Vlogging as a way to counter negative stereotypes about Kashmir, replacing images of conflict with those of peace, natural beauty, and hospitality.
“For years, we’ve been portrayed as a troubled region. Now our youth are changing that narrative through their videos.” – A college student in Srinagar.
Negative Opinions - Irresponsible Behaviour
Some members of the public are deeply concerned about vloggers engaging in reckless acts, such as vandalizing property or performing dangerous stunts for views.
“Filming stunts in drains or climbing dangerous spots is not creativity—it’s madness. It sets a terrible example for younger kids.” – A parent in Srinagar - Public Nuisance
Residents of crowded areas complain about vloggers disrupting daily life by filming in public spaces, blocking roads, or causing disturbances.
“They turn markets and streets into their studios, disturbing everyone around them. It’s becoming a nuisance.” – A shopkeeper from ganderbal. - Focus on Sensationalism
There is criticism of vloggers prioritizing sensational or inappropriate content over meaningful storytelling.
“Instead of showcasing the best of Kashmir, some just do silly or dirty things to go viral. This is not what our youth should be known for.” – An elder in Budgam.
Concerns About Influence on Children
Parents and educators worry about the impact of irresponsible Vlogging on impressionable children, who may try to imitate dangerous or inappropriate behaviour.
“Kids think this is the new way to get famous, but they don’t understand the risks involved. It’s harmful.” – A school principal in Srinagar.
Call for Balance and Responsibility
Despite the concerns, many people believe that Vlogging can be a force for good if done responsibly. They urge vloggers to focus on meaningful content that positively impacts society.
“It’s a wonderful platform, but our youth need to use it wisely. Creativity should not come at the cost of ethics or safety.” – A retired government official in Sopore.
Conclusion
Vlogging holds immense potential to be a force for good, showcasing the beauty, resilience, and culture of the Kashmir Valley while inspiring and educating audiences worldwide. However, its misuse for cheap thrills and fleeting fame is a growing concern that must be addressed.
Through the enforcement of existing laws, the promotion of ethical content creation, and the introduction of targeted regulations, the community can strike a balance between creativity and responsibility. By fostering a culture of accountability, the youth of Kashmir can transform Vlogging into a powerful tool for positive change, ensuring that it uplifts society rather than harms it.
Adv.Falak Jan holding qualification in B.A.LLB,LLM(Criminal laws),Diploma in consumer laws. Can be reached at flkkhan26@gmail.com