Srinagar, Aug 3 – Security agencies in the Kashmir Valley have identified a troubling trend among local youth who are utilizing social media to glorify separatist and terrorist figures. This behavior is not driven by ideological beliefs but is a strategic move aimed at increasing their follower count and generating revenue through advertising.

The Srinagar police have been actively monitoring social media platforms to combat radicalization and uncovered this tactic after detaining several individuals involved in managing such accounts. During interrogations, these youths reportedly confessed that they employed provocative imagery, including that of the deceased terrorist Burhan Wani from the banned Hizbul Mujahideen, as a deliberate strategy to attract a large and engaged audience.

Once they amassed a significant following, particularly from international audiences, these account managers would switch the inflammatory images for more benign visuals, such as scenic landscapes or Chinar trees, according to officials. This emerging trend raises concerns, as it blurs the lines between political dissent, radicalism, and opportunism in the quest for online fame and financial gain.

The police are committed to enhancing their surveillance efforts and taking stringent actions against individuals who exploit sensitive security issues for personal profit. Additionally, initiatives are underway to educate families about the potential repercussions of their children’s online activities. Recently, seven minors detained by the police were released after undergoing counseling sessions with their parents.

Officials believe that the motivations behind the rise of social media influencers leveraging provocative imagery in the Kashmir Valley are primarily financial. In today’s digital landscape, where content monetization is increasingly prioritized, the pursuit of engagement and revenue has created a complex environment. Many influencers depend on brand partnerships across social media platforms, promoting products or integrating them into their content.

Two notable influencers operating on multiple social media platforms have indicated that the revenue-sharing model remains ambiguous, despite the presence of a verification system. One influencer, who chose to remain anonymous, described the payment process as “unclear,” highlighting the lack of transparency regarding the criteria that influence payment frequency and amounts.

The investigation into the use of separatist imagery by young Kashmiris for follower growth reveals a more intricate narrative about the contemporary digital economy. The aspiration for online celebrity is often closely tied to monetization goals, which can be unpredictable and challenging to achieve.

Monetization on major platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube involves a mix of direct advertising revenue, subscriptions, and brand partnerships, each with its own set of regulations and requirements. For instance, certain platforms necessitate a professional account and a minimum of 10,000 followers along with 1,000 minutes of watched content within a 60-day period.

Thus, the strategy of employing provocative content to enhance follower counts in Kashmir appears to be a direct response to the instability of the digital economy.