Politics

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Says Protest Is a Democratic Dialogue, Urges Society to Hear Gen Z

Published On Fri, 07 Aug 2026
Ishita Malhotra
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Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday said peaceful protests are a legitimate form of democratic dialogue, asserting that young people should not be branded as "anti-national" simply for raising their voices on issues that concern them. His remarks came during an interaction with members of Generation Z and Generation Alpha at a youth gathering in Mumbai.


Addressing the audience, Bhagwat said protests have an important place in a democracy when they are aimed at resolving issues through consensus rather than creating divisions. He stressed that dialogue should always be the preferred route, but if concerns remain unheard, peaceful demonstrations become a valid means of expressing public opinion.

The RSS chief also expressed strong confidence in India's younger generation, describing Gen Z as honest and driven by genuine concerns. He said the grievances raised by students and young citizens deserve to be heard with empathy instead of being dismissed on political grounds. According to Bhagwat, disagreeing with the government or participating in protests does not diminish one's patriotism.

Referring to the recent wave of student protests over issues in the education sector, Bhagwat acknowledged that many of the concerns being voiced are legitimate. He noted that India's education system still has several challenges that require attention and meaningful reforms, adding that institutions should engage with young people through constructive conversations.

Emphasising India's long tradition of debate and discussion, Bhagwat said differences of opinion should ultimately lead to better understanding and stronger consensus. He urged all stakeholders to focus on dialogue rather than confrontation, saying democratic societies grow stronger when diverse viewpoints are heard and respected.

Bhagwat's comments come amid an ongoing national conversation around youth participation in public affairs and student-led demonstrations. His statement is being seen as a notable endorsement of peaceful democratic engagement, with a call for greater communication between institutions and the country's younger generation.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from The New Indian Express.