Fake activism is a dangerous tool that is used to manipulate public opinion and to further the interests of those who stand to gain from the status quo. Genuine activism, on the other hand, is about speaking truth to power and fighting for the rights of the underprivileged and marginalized sections of society.
During the UPA government’s time in power in India, there were several instances of what was described as “fake activism”. These were cases where individuals or groups appeared to be protesting against a particular issue, but were actually being funded or supported by interest groups for their own gain. One example was the anti-nuclear protests in Kudankulam, Tamil Nadu, which began in 2011. There were also several instances of fake activism during the anti-corruption protests led by Anna Hazare in 2011.
Fake activism can also have a significant impact on public opinion. By using misleading or exaggerated claims, fake activists can sway public opinion against a project or cause. For example, activists opposing genetically modified (GM) crops have been accused of using fake activism to spread fear and misinformation about the safety of GM crops, even though the overwhelming scientific consensus is that they are safe. As a result, public opposition to GM crops has delayed their adoption in many parts of the world.
