RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat says Gen Z protesters are ‘our own people’, calls for education reforms

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday said Gen Z protesters should not be branded as anti-nationals, describing them as “our own people” who seek logical answers and respond to honesty and patriotism.

Addressing an event in Mumbai, Bhagwat said today’s youth are different from previous generations, as they are more questioning and expect reasoned explanations rather than unquestioning obedience.

“If Gen Z is protesting, they are not anti-nationals. They are our own people, our next generation,” Bhagwat said, adding that Gen Z and Gen Alpha are, in his view, more honest than the current generation and receptive to sincere appeals for patriotism and public service.

His remarks came amid protests over the alleged NEET paper leak, in which large numbers of Gen Z students participated. Referring to police action against protesters at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on July 20, Bhagwat questioned the use of force, saying the reasons behind the lathi charge and pellet guns should be examined.

Calling for sweeping reforms in the education sector, the RSS chief said education should not be treated as a business and advocated increasing education spending to six per cent of the national budget. He stressed affordable fee structures, greater public participation in schools and stronger teacher training to improve educational quality.

On foreign policy, Bhagwat said disagreements with neighbouring countries should not permanently damage bilateral ties. He argued that Pakistan and China should not be viewed as India’s “wholehearted enemies”, saying conflicts may temporarily suspend engagement but should not end relations altogether.

He also said citizens should stand with the government during times of conflict while remembering that humanity ultimately rises above political differences.