Opposition Accuses BJP And RSS Of Practising Double Standards Over Gen-Z Youth

Opposition parties, including the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) and Congress, have accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of following a "double standards" approach towards young protesters following RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's recent remarks that Gen-Z should not be labelled as "anti-national". The opposition questioned the contrast between Bhagwat's comments advocating dialogue with young people and earlier criticism of youth protests by some BJP leaders. The remarks came after Bhagwat addressed a gathering of around 2,000 members of Gen-Z and Gen Alpha in Mumbai, where he said that young people raising concerns should not automatically be branded anti-national.

He stressed the importance of communication and building a relationship with the younger generation, describing them as the country's future. Bhagwat's comments were aimed at encouraging dialogue with young citizens and understanding their concerns. Reacting to the statement, NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) spokesperson Mahesh Tapase alleged that the Sangh Parivar was presenting two different positions on youth issues. He claimed that while Bhagwat projected a message of moderation and engagement, some BJP leaders had previously criticised young protesters during nationwide demonstrations linked to examination-related concerns, including the NEET controversy.

Tapase questioned which approach represented the actual ideological position of the RSS. He said young Indians should understand whether the organisation supported dialogue with protesters or whether it viewed dissent through a more critical lens. According to him, the difference between Bhagwat's statement and comments made by certain BJP leaders reflected what he described as a political strategy involving different messages for different audiences. "It appears to be a carefully calibrated political strategy -- one voice attempts to soften the image of the establishment while another continues to intimidate, polarise and delegitimise dissent," Tapase said in his statement. He added that young voters should not be influenced by what he called a "double standard" approach towards youth participation and political expression.

Also Read: BJP Disowns Derogatory Remarks Made During Article 370 Rally Involving Women

The opposition's criticism follows a broader political debate over how governments and political organisations respond to youth-led movements and public protests. Issues related to examinations, employment opportunities and governance have frequently triggered demonstrations by young people across the country, making youth engagement an important political issue. The BJP and RSS have not officially responded to the latest allegations made by Tapase. Supporters of the organisations have often maintained that their positions focus on national interest, constructive dialogue and addressing genuine concerns while opposing disruptive activities.

Mohan Bhagwat's remarks have renewed discussions about the relationship between political institutions and India's younger generations. With Gen-Z becoming increasingly active in social and political conversations, parties across the political spectrum are attempting to connect with young voters and address issues that influence their aspirations and concerns. The controversy highlights the growing importance of youth voices in Indian politics, where questions around education, employment, transparency and governance continue to shape public debates. As political parties prepare for future electoral challenges, engagement with younger generations is expected to remain a key area of focus.

Also Read: BJP Criticises Rahul Gandhi Following Cancellation Of 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' Event In Prayagraj