Mohan Bhagwat, chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), advised youth against banning social media and urged the adoption of self-imposed discipline.
The remarks signal a strategic effort to engage Generation Z in responsible digital citizenship while emphasizing civilizational links over geopolitical friction.
Bhagwat addressed students regarding the prevalence of fake content online. He said youth need self-imposed discipline on social media to navigate the digital landscape safely and effectively [1]. Rather than pursuing bans, he suggested that individual restraint is the primary tool for managing the influence of these platforms.
Beyond technology, the RSS chief discussed the relationship between India and its neighbors. He said conflicts between nations should not permanently sever people-to-people ties. Bhagwat emphasized the shared history of the region, stating that Pakistan was Bharat less than 100 years ago [1].
He cautioned against the long-term effects of enmity in the region. He said permanent hatred is not a solution [1]. By highlighting these historical connections, Bhagwat sought to encourage continued dialogue and the preservation of civilizational links despite ongoing tensions.
The guidance to the youth focuses on a dual approach: maintaining internal mental discipline in the face of digital misinformation, and maintaining an external perspective of shared heritage with neighboring states.
“"Pakistan was Bharat less than 100 years ago"”
These statements reflect a nuanced approach by the RSS to balance nationalist identity with a pragmatic recognition of shared history. By advocating for self-regulation over state-mandated bans on social media, Bhagwat is positioning individual responsibility as a core value for the next generation of Indian citizens.
