Mohan Bhagwat, chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), urged the government to address concerns raised by protestors at Jantar Mantar in Delhi [1].
The statement marks a significant moment as the RSS chief acknowledges the grievances of students protesting against the national examination system. The unrest centers on allegations of a paper leak during the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) and a broader push for systemic exam reforms [1, 3].
Bhagwat issued his comments in response to demonstrations led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) [1]. The protests began over the specific instance of the NEET paper leak but have since expanded to include demands for comprehensive changes to how exams are conducted [3].
"The new generation asks questions; there is a need to listen to them," Bhagwat said [2].
While Bhagwat focused on the need for dialogue, other political figures have highlighted the volatility of the demonstrations. Mahua Moitra (TMC) called for a formal response regarding the conduct of security forces during the events [4].
"We demand a statement from Amit Shah on the violence during the NEET protests at Jantar Mantar," Moitra said [4].
The protests at Jantar Mantar have become a focal point for youth frustration regarding academic transparency. The CJP continues to push for accountability, and a restructuring of the examination process to prevent future leaks [1, 3].
“"The new generation asks questions; there is a need to listen to them."”
The public support from the RSS chief for the protestors suggests a potential shift or tension in how the ideological wing of the ruling coalition views the government's handling of youth grievances. By validating the 'questions' of the new generation, Bhagwat is positioning the RSS as a mediator between the frustrated student population and the state administration.
