What is trolling and how does it affect individuals? 

Trolls are internet users, who have not the slightest idea of how to say something positive and get their energy from bringing others down. Online trolling is associated with aggressive and malicious behaviour that may annoy the internet users and can provoke them to indulge in hate speeches or comments. 

So, what makes an individual disregard the feelings and sentiments of another person by sending such insensitive messages?
Well, the possible reasons could be many-- ranging from simple boredom to barbarous pleasures. 
If we take a look at the recent scenario in our country, we notice that after the demise of Sushant Singh Rajput, many of his fans lashed out by trolling the celebrity kids seeking justice for Sushant's death--as a result of which the actors had to limit comments on their Instagram posts. And it is not only the Bollywood industry or famous people who become the victim of getting trolled online, but this act of maligning other human beings is also seen amongst youth as well as kids, as the Internet has become widely accessible to people of all age groups. 

According to a survey, 1 in 3 young people become the subject of trolling  – and 1 in 4 are usually affected by it. 

Just like cyberbullying, trolling has its own consequences and we need to make people aware of it. 

There are examples when  victims  lost their confidence and reduced their self-esteem due to harassment by internet trolls. The wellbeing of online users is at risk due to inconsiderate attacks by trolls. It can disrupt the psychological balance of victims. There are cases of teenagers committing suicide as a result of extreme online abuse or trolling.

Online experts say that keeping silence or not replying to the comment of a troll is the best way to stop trolling. However Excessive trolling  targeting certain members or ideas needs to be prevented and it is the need of the hour that some strict action should be taken against the trolls.

                               
                               - Sakshi Jha and Surbhi Tyagi