RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat backs Gen-Z’s ‘right to protest’

New Delhi (TIP): RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday, Aug 6, defended the right of India’s younger generation to protest, saying Gen Z should not be branded “anti-national” for raising concerns.
Speaking at the 15th anniversary celebration of the India International Model United Nations (IIMUN), Bhagwat said democratic dissent should aim at correcting the system rather than targeting individuals.
Responding to a question on protests by young people, Bhagwat said democracy provides constitutional ways to express dissent and urged people to understand the reasons behind demonstrations instead of dismissing them.
“If Gen Z is raising its voice, it is not doing so merely to oppose someone. There is some problem, some pain, and that should be addressed,” he said. “Agitation should not be against you or me. It should be for correcting the system.” He added that dialogue between those in authority and those protesting should begin early so that issues do not escalate unnecessarily.
Addressing concerns that young protesters are often labelled “anti-national”, Bhagwat rejected such characterisations.
“Gen Z is our own next generation. They are not anti-national,” he said, stressing that there must be a sense of belonging and dialogue between generations. “When that relationship is recognised, both sides understand each other better.”
Bhagwat also praised the younger generation, saying he considered Gen Z and Gen Alpha to be more honest than previous generations.
“I believe this new generation is more honest. Appeals based on patriotism and service resonate honestly with them,” he said. Asked about incidents in which young protesters have allegedly faced police action, including lathi-charge and pellet firing, Bhagwat declined to comment on specific cases, saying he did not have complete information.