India News : RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has said that Gen Z protesters should not be labelled as anti-national, asserting that their protests are legitimate and form part of a healthy democratic process rather than an act of rebellion.
Bhagwat made the remarks on Thursday while addressing the 15th Foundation Day celebration of the India International Movement to United Nations (I.I.M.U.N.) at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre in Mumbai during an event focused on Gen Z.
Protests Are a Democratic Tool
Bhagwat said that in recent years, young people participating in street protests have often been viewed through a political lens. He stressed that in a democracy, public protests are a valid means of building consensus.
He added that when all avenues for dialogue are exhausted, peaceful protests become a legitimate part of the democratic process.
Purpose of Protest Should Be Solutions, Not Division
The RSS chief emphasized that the objective of any movement should not be to divide society but to create consensus and move toward solutions. While acknowledging the right to protest, he also underlined that such demonstrations should remain within the framework of the Constitution and democratic values.
Statement Draws Political Attention
Bhagwat’s remarks have attracted attention in political circles, as public protests over the past decade have frequently been accompanied by allegations that demonstrators were pursuing political agendas or acting against national interests.
He said that not every young person who disagrees with the government or prevailing views should be considered anti-national, and added that institutions responsible for addressing young people’s concerns should listen to and understand their grievances.
Today’s Youth Ask Questions
Bhagwat observed that earlier generations often accepted the views of elders without questioning them, whereas today’s youth seek logic and reasoning.
“They ask questions, engage in discussions, and do not hesitate to express their views. This reflects India’s long tradition of intellectual debate,” he said.
According to him, questioning authority is not an act of rebellion, but an essential part of a culture that values knowledge and dialogue.
Trust in the Youth
Referring to police action during protests, Bhagwat said it would not be appropriate to reach conclusions without facts.
However, he added that if he had to trust one side in the absence of evidence, he would place his trust in Gen Z, highlighting his confidence in the intentions of the younger generation.
