By Lija Feba

The country is going through another stand still. Many of us, particularly the youngsters spend most of their time scrolling, sharing and liking. And like any other online game, dating apps including Tinder have reportedly become the new space for many of them. Is Date just a game?

To begin with, let’s first talk about the term ‘date’. What is a ‘date’ apart from which you see in a calendar?

When referred to, it states that ‘a date is a romantic or a social engagement or an appointment’. Sounds complex? Let’s make it a bit more simple. A date is actually a meeting.

When did the idea of date come into being?

Well, let’s thank the people in the west. It is not clear on when the date began but the culture of dating came from western societies. A date is meant to be romantic. It happens between two people who are ready to explore each other’s strengths and weaknesses. 

A date is nothing legal but an emotional commitment. The two people in a date can assess each other for whichever period they want and can decide on whether to continue their relationship or not. Those who think that they got the right person may end up being partners for life. Those who find the relationship not working can be lifelong friends or can just shut the doors forever. For all these reasons, a date remains the best way to know someone.

Unfortunately here in most parts of our country, the term ‘date’ is made complicated by people themselves. Many people think a date is obscene. The taboo that date is just for having sexual pleasure concretes this wrong notion. This is again reflected in Indian dating apps which are actually developed for finding the right partner.

On the other hand, people are not willing for a ‘responsible ‘date’ which needs time, effort, transparency and consent. Sure that these apps don’t  stress people to date. But to take trust for granted is unjustifiable. And our folks, especially the younger generation should be educated on what a real date means.

Studies by MC Grath in 2015 show that about 25% users of Dating apps are already in a committed relationship. These Non-single users are more likely to report sexual behaviour. Infidelity in committed relationships, a review by A. J Blow and K. Hartnett also focuses on the motives of Non-single users. Surprisingly, these casual conversations are even done for financial gains. 

Dating is all good if you are investing your time and feelings on not the right, but at least on a real person. It is high time that we need healthier dating practices. The dating apps should address similar issues and take necessary  measures too.