RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Validates Gen Z Protests and Calls for Education Reform

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat stated on Thursday that the grievances of Gen Z are genuine and that protesting is a legitimate way of reaching consensus in a democracy. Speaking at a youth conference organized by IIMUN, Bhagwat remarked that the current generation is more honest than previous ones and seeks logical answers rather than unquestioning obedience to elders. He explicitly stated that Gen Z protesters are not anti nationals but are instead the next generation of the country.

While the center left source focused on Bhagwat's comments regarding the constitutional methods of protest and the need to resolve youth problems, the center right source framed the remarks against the backdrop of recent Jantar Mantar protests against the NEET paper leak. In that context, Bhagwat questioned the use of pellet guns and lathi charges by police against students, stating that the reasons for such actions need to be studied.

Bhagwat also advocated for significant education reforms, asserting that education should not be a commercial business. He supported increasing government spending on education to six percent of the GDP and called for improvements in fee structures and teacher training. Regarding technology, he argued against banning social media, suggesting that self discipline and the verification of information from authentic sources are more effective than restrictions, which he claimed could drive platforms into the black market.

Additionally, Bhagwat addressed international relations, stating that conflicts with countries like Pakistan and China should not permanently sever bilateral ties. He noted that while citizens should stand with the government during conflicts, humanity ultimately transcends political divisions.