Government should consider selfie-safe zones, if not selfie-free to avoid untoward incidents

Nashik authorities banning selfies during the Kumbh Mela to prevent untoward incidents is commendable and seems part of an international initiative to deal with the phenomenon.

But can any mortal action stop the onward roll of that juggernaut? Disneyland has outlawed them, as have dozens of zoos, museums and sports arenas around the world, for reasons ranging from safety to copyright. Yet, the eagerness of people to photographically document their personal presence appears to be irrepressible, claiming even the highest functionaries around the world as co-enthusiasts. And last month’s order by a US court allowing selfies with ballots inside voting booths highlights that not even the most sacred tenets of democracy are safe from selfies any more. It must be noted, though, that when it comes to personalised mementos of events or places, selfies are far less damaging than graffiti, the perennial bane of architectural monuments and public utilities.

People don’t take kindly to blanket bans. So, instead of designating popular tourist and religious areas as ‘no-selfie zones’, perhaps authorities should consider the establishment of scenic but ‘safe-selfie’ zones — like smoking rooms —within those precincts so that selfie addicts can get their fix without causing inconvenience or untoward incidents.