Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has urged society to adopt a more compassionate and communicative approach while engaging with young people, saying that listening to them is just as important as guiding them. His remarks came at a time when student-led protests over education-related issues continue to attract nationwide attention, particularly at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar.
Speaking at a public programme in New Delhi, Bhagwat stressed that the younger generation should not merely be expected to follow instructions. Instead, he said they deserve opportunities to ask questions, express concerns and participate in meaningful conversations. According to him, dialogue is the most effective way to build trust and shape responsible citizens.
Although Bhagwat did not directly mention the ongoing student demonstrations, his comments were widely viewed in the context of the nationwide debate surrounding examination reforms and youth participation in public discourse.
“Young Minds Need Answers, Not Just Instructions”
During his address, Bhagwat observed that today’s youth are naturally inquisitive and seek logical explanations rather than unquestioning obedience. He said elders should welcome difficult questions instead of discouraging them.
He remarked that children and young adults learn more from observing the behaviour of parents, teachers and elders than from hearing lectures. Therefore, he urged families to become role models by practising the values they wish to pass on.
Bhagwat also encouraged parents to dedicate more time to their children despite increasingly busy lifestyles. He suggested that regular conversations within families help create confidence and emotional security while enabling young people to share their aspirations and challenges freely.
According to him, guidance delivered with patience and affection leaves a far greater impact than instructions delivered through authority alone.
Remarks Come Amid Student Protest Movement
Bhagwat’s statement has drawn significant attention because it coincides with continuing student protests demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities and broader education reforms.
Thousands of students from different parts of the country have gathered in Delhi and other cities to raise concerns regarding transparency in competitive examinations. Protesters have sought stronger safeguards against paper leaks, improved institutional accountability and fair opportunities for aspirants.
The demonstrations have become one of the largest youth movements focused on education in recent years, prompting political debate as well as discussions among educators, civil society groups and policymakers.
While Bhagwat refrained from commenting directly on the protests, his emphasis on listening to young people resonated with the broader national conversation about addressing student concerns through dialogue rather than confrontation.
Families Play the First Role in Nation Building
A major focus of Bhagwat’s address was the responsibility of families in shaping future generations. He said that values such as honesty, discipline, compassion and respect are primarily learned at home.
He encouraged parents not to limit their relationship with children to academic performance or discipline but to become active participants in their emotional and intellectual growth.
According to Bhagwat, children who are encouraged to express themselves develop stronger confidence and a deeper sense of responsibility. He added that families should create an atmosphere where differences of opinion can be discussed respectfully.
He also highlighted that the influence of digital media and changing social environments makes regular family interaction more important than ever before.
Building Trust Between Generations
Bhagwat underlined that modern society is witnessing rapid social and technological changes, creating new expectations and challenges for young people.
He said older generations should make an effort to understand these changing realities rather than expecting today’s youth to think exactly as previous generations did. Every generation, he observed, faces unique circumstances and therefore requires guidance suited to its own time.
The RSS chief maintained that trust develops when elders are willing to listen sincerely. Respect, he said, grows naturally when communication is based on empathy instead of authority.
He added that constructive dialogue can bridge the gap between generations and help resolve misunderstandings before they become larger social issues.
Education Debate Continues Nationwide
The education sector has remained under intense public scrutiny following allegations related to examination irregularities and demands for systemic reforms.
Student organisations have continued to press for transparent investigations, improved examination security and greater accountability from authorities. The issue has also triggered political exchanges, with both the government and opposition presenting differing views on the handling of the crisis.
Education experts have noted that restoring public confidence in competitive examinations will require not only administrative reforms but also sustained engagement with students who invest years preparing for these tests.
In this environment, Bhagwat’s emphasis on listening to young people has added another perspective to the ongoing discussion surrounding education and youth welfare.
Dialogue Over Division
Concluding his address, Bhagwat reiterated that society progresses when people are willing to understand one another rather than impose opinions. He said young people should be encouraged to think independently while remaining connected to values of responsibility, discipline and national service.
He urged parents, teachers and community leaders to become patient listeners who inspire confidence instead of fear. According to him, open communication strengthens both families and society, creating an environment where the younger generation can contribute positively to the nation’s future.
As student protests continue to shape the national conversation on education, Bhagwat’s message placed the spotlight on dialogue, trust and mutual respect as essential elements in addressing the aspirations and concerns of India’s youth.
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