RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat backed Gen Z protests as a democratic form of dialogue, urging constitutional dissent, education reforms, and trust in young citizens. Addressing IIMUN students, he called for improved education policies, greater public participation, and inclusive societal progress.
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat strongly defended the democratic right of students to protest, stating that peaceful demonstrations are a legitimate form of dialogue in a democracy and should not be viewed as anti-national activities. Speaking at the inauguration of the annual championship conference organised by India’s International Movement to Unite Nations (IIMUN), Bhagwat expressed unwavering confidence in Generation Z and Generation Alpha, describing them as more honest than previous generations and essential to India’s future.
Addressing an audience of over 2,000 students representing Gen Z and Gen Alpha during the organisation’s 15th anniversary celebrations, Bhagwat stressed that the younger generation deserves to be heard rather than criticised for raising concerns about national issues. His remarks came amid ongoing discussions surrounding student protests in Delhi over the alleged NEET paper leak.
During the interactive session, Bhagwat said that if there was one generation he could trust without hesitation, it would be Generation Z. He explained that today’s youth possess honesty, sincerity and a desire to improve society, qualities that are vital for nation-building and strengthening democratic values.
Emphasising the importance of listening to young voices, Bhagwat questioned why student protests should automatically be viewed negatively. He said that Gen Z consists of the nation’s own youth, and when they protest for a genuine cause, their grievances deserve attention. Labelling such students as anti-country or anti-national simply because they organise demonstrations, he said, is neither fair nor constructive.
Responding to questions about whether protesting itself is wrong, Bhagwat firmly rejected that notion. He described protests as an extension of dialogue within a democratic framework. According to him, meaningful conversations help prevent conflict because both sides gain an opportunity to understand each other’s viewpoints. If unresolved issues continue to be ignored, disagreements naturally evolve into disputes.
He explained that democratic societies provide space for peaceful protests precisely because they enable citizens to communicate dissatisfaction and encourage reforms. However, Bhagwat also cautioned that demonstrations should never be used to create social divisions or hatred among communities. The purpose of any protest, he said, should remain focused on correcting systemic shortcomings rather than targeting individuals.
Referring to concerns raised by students over India’s education system, Bhagwat acknowledged that several reforms are still needed. He observed that many important changes in education policy remain incomplete, making discussions and public engagement necessary. Dialogue, he said, should always be the first step toward resolving disagreements before considering other options.
Invoking the principles of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Bhagwat underlined that expressing dissent is a Constitutional right available to every citizen. At the same time, he emphasised that protests must remain within the framework of the Constitution and should never violate democratic norms or encourage division within society.
When questioned about reports alleging the use of force, including cane charges and pellet guns against protesting students, Bhagwat refrained from offering a definitive opinion. He stated that he did not possess complete information about the incidents and therefore believed it would be inappropriate to make judgments without understanding all the facts. He maintained that authorities should thoroughly examine where lapses occurred before arriving at conclusions.
Bhagwat also mentioned that while travelling to Mumbai, he came across reports claiming that some individuals had infiltrated the protest movement. However, he noted that he could not independently verify those reports. Despite such claims, he reiterated that his confidence in Generation Z remained unchanged, once again stating that he trusted the youth and believed their intentions were genuine.
The RSS Chief also used the occasion to address broader concerns regarding India’s education system. He argued that education should never be treated merely as a commercial enterprise but as a fundamental necessity for developing responsible citizens and preparing future generations. According to him, quality education must remain accessible and affordable for everyone.
Supporting increased investment in the education sector, Bhagwat described the long-standing demand to allocate six per cent of the national budget to education as reasonable and justified. He further suggested that the responsibility of strengthening educational institutions should not rest solely with governments. Society, educational organisations and citizens should actively contribute to sustaining and improving the country’s education system.
Expanding the discussion beyond education, Bhagwat also addressed social inclusion. He stated that members of the LGBTQ+ community are an integral part of Indian society and deserve recognition and respect. While speaking about same-sex marriage, he observed that legal and institutional frameworks require thoughtful preparation and gradual adaptation rather than abrupt implementation without adequate societal readiness.
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Bhagwat’s interaction with students reflected an emphasis on democratic participation, constitutional values and constructive engagement between institutions and citizens. By encouraging dialogue over confrontation, supporting peaceful protests, advocating education reforms and expressing confidence in India’s younger generations, the RSS Chief underscored the importance of youth participation in shaping the country’s democratic future.
His remarks are expected to contribute to ongoing national conversations surrounding student activism, education policy, democratic rights and the evolving role of young citizens in India’s development. As debates continue over education reforms and public participation, Bhagwat’s message highlighted dialogue, constitutional responsibility and trust in the nation’s youth as key pillars of a healthy democracy.
