[Reader-list] Sri Lankan Army war crime Video footage - News Channels responsibility

[Murali V]

I am not discussing about the psychology of the army during war. I am
only stating that TV Channels must be more responsible and provide
suitable warnings.

I also acknowledge that one should know what is happening around, but
there is also some mental maturity required for one to understand and
act accordingly.

Can one show sex education films to a kid of 10-12 years. Can one
teach complex logic to kids who dont even know what logic is.

Regards,
V Murali

On Thu, Aug 27, 2009 at 12:23 PM, Rakesh Iyer<rakesh.rnbdj at gmail.com> wrote:
> Dear Jeebesh
>
> There is nothing really surprising about these videos. The fact is that most
> of the armies across history have done it, and it's something armies share
> in common.
>
> History says that there were armies which went on strike because they were
> not allowed to 'enjoy their time with the women of the cities which they had
> attacked'! There were armies which looted religious places and destroyed
> them, looted and raped women and burnt them as well, killed elders and
> children in the most despicable manner, and thus destroyed innocent lives in
> the world. And in this, all religions can claim their champions, though
> their scale of doing so may have been different (from Islam to Christianity
> to Hinduism. The only exceptions could be Buddhism and Jainism, and maybe
> Confucianism, rest I don't know).
>
> The current armies too are nothing short of that. Look at what US army was
> doing in Iraq, and think what they may have done in Guantanamo bay, Cuba.
> Look at what our army (or para-military forces) indulge in Kashmir,
> North-East, Chhattisgarh (Salwa Judum) and other possible areas. (Now the
> same claims are heard about Lalgarh as well). Look at the Taliban and the
> way they treat individuals. (The Taliban too is an armed militia and hence
> like an army). And of course, Srilankan army must not be forgotten as well.
>
> The army in itself is an institution which is only good for strategic
> blunders and massive disasters. When people are dying of hunger and their
> freedoms are being slaughtered or attacked, should we actually require
> armies? Do they help in enhancing freedoms?
>
> As for the videos, till how long will we hide away truths from our children
> and our future generations? I agree that a warning could have been given,
> but let them know what the real world is. That is necessary. And let's not
> hide the images from the children always just because explaining that to
> them will be difficult. At some point of time they would have to see it.
> What could be however a reason is to ensure that their mindsets are not
> badly affected and they don't become too pessimistic or sad due to regular
> viewings, and in that sense it's important the warning is given.
>
> Regards
>
> Rakesh
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