‘Gen Z protesters not anti-national’: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat backs dialogue, calls education grievances ‘genuine’

RSS Chief Bhagwat Validates Gen Z Protests as Constructive Democratic Expression

Theindiapostdaily.com – During a gathering of approximately 2,000 young participants representing Gen Z and Gen Alpha generations, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh leader Mohan Bhagwat emphasized that demonstrations serve as legitimate channels for democratic dialogue. Speaking on August 6 at Mumbai’s International Movement to Unite Nations (IIMUN) 15th anniversary celebration, Bhagwat articulated that collective dissent should unite rather than fragment society.

Protest is also a way of dialogue. In a democracy, protest is a way of building consensus. Different views come together and a consensus evolves after discussion.

Outreach Following Education Minister’s Resignation

Observers interpret Bhagwat’s remarks as the RSS’s most substantial engagement with younger demographics since the Cockroach Janta Party demonstrations regarding the NEET examination irregularities led to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stepping down from his position.

When questioned about whether earlier governmental dialogue might have prevented the CJP mobilization, Bhagwat acknowledged that citizens naturally resort to agitation when their concerns remain unaddressed through conversation. He emphasized that such actions ultimately serve consensus-building purposes rather than creating societal splits.

The Gen Z grievances are genuine and I believe in their honesty.

Students’ Actions Rooted in Patriotism

Addressing police responses during the July 20 student demonstrations, Bhagwat questioned the necessity of lathi charges and pellet gun deployment, suggesting these measures warrant careful examination. He characterized the youth as integral members of the nation deserving of understanding rather than confrontation.

I’m saying, if Gen Z is protesting, they are not anti-national. They’re our own people. They’re our next generation. With this sense of belonging, along with dialogue, I said a sense of belonging is needed. A relationship is needed. That is our relationship. Its recognition is needed.

The RSS leader affirmed that educational concerns raised by demonstrators reflect authentic issues requiring attention. He noted that substantial improvements remain necessary within India’s educational framework, and public discourse about these gaps represents healthy civic engagement.

Generational Differences and Communication Styles

Bhagwat observed that contemporary youth seek both rational explanations and emotional warmth in responses, contrasting with previous generations who typically accepted elder authority without extensive questioning. This generational shift, he suggested, requires adapted approaches to governance and communication.

Regarding social media regulation, the RSS chief opposed blanket bans, arguing that prohibition merely pushes problematic content into underground channels where it proliferates further. He advocated for societal self-discipline and verification practices as more effective solutions than legislative restrictions.

If you ban something, it simply moves to the black market and spreads even more. The entire society has to respond to this challenge together. Only then will the government’s efforts succeed.

Technology Misuse and Social Media Responsibility

Warning about emerging technological capabilities, Bhagwat highlighted how artificial intelligence can now generate convincing fake videos using real people’s faces and voices. He urged citizens to verify information through authentic sources before accepting social media content as truth.

He also emphasized that social media personalities bear significant responsibility toward their audiences. When millions follow an influencer, that figure must ensure their guidance doesn’t lead followers into difficulties.

We need self-imposed discipline in using social media. Once that discipline develops, regulations will work effectively.

Education Investment and Structural Reform

Bhagwat expressed support for increasing educational expenditure to six percent of the national GDP, characterizing education as a public good rather than a commercial enterprise. He argued that the system should be organized to ensure accessibility for all citizens regardless of economic status.

While acknowledging that rules and discipline remain essential, he stressed that legislation achieves its purpose only when accompanied by genuine shifts in public attitudes and mindsets.

Rules and discipline are necessary, but they succeed only when attitudes change. Many laws have been made. What matters is changing people’s mindset.

The RSS, established in 1925, continues to function as India’s premier cultural and nationalist organization while serving as the ideological foundation for the Bharatiya Janata Party, its political counterpart united by shared commitments to Hindutva and cultural nationalism.