RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Warns: Violent Protests Like Nepal's Gen Z Movement Create Instability, Not Change

Protesters during September's Gen Z agitation in Nepal

New Delhi:

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed the issue of civil unrest on Thursday, stating that violent protests such as the recent Gen Z-led movement in Nepal that toppled a corrupt government, as well as similar uprisings in Sri Lanka (July 2024) and Bangladesh (2022), ultimately prove ineffective and create opportunities for foreign interference.

During his speech at the RSS centenary celebration in Nagpur, Bhagwat expressed concern that these violent demonstrations typically result in anarchy rather than meaningful change.

"The instability in neighboring countries affects our region and people, some of whom were historically part of India. This raises concerns beyond national security, touching on our sense of belonging and connection," Bhagwat explained.

He further cautioned, "Regional unrest is troubling. The regime changes in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal triggered by violent public anger are concerning for India. Forces seeking to create similar disturbances within India are active both domestically and internationally."

Bhagwat acknowledged that government disconnection from citizens' needs often sparks public discontent: "When governments remain distant from people, unaware of their challenges, and implement policies against public interest, citizens naturally turn against them. However, expressing dissatisfaction through violence benefits no one."

"Democratic processes offer legitimate pathways to change. Reckless or violent methods create temporary turmoil without lasting transformation," he added.

The RSS leader referenced historical precedents to support his argument: "Examine history closely. No revolution has completely fulfilled its objectives. France rebelled against monarchy only for Napoleon to become emperor. Many socialist movements occurred, yet those countries eventually embraced capitalism."

Addressing India's pluralistic society, Bhagwat emphasized that diversity represents a national tradition that should be celebrated, while noting that differences must be expressed within legal frameworks.

"Community provocation is unacceptable. While authorities must respond fairly, youth should remain vigilant and intervene appropriately when necessary. We must reject the grammar of anarchy," he stated.

Bhagwat's remarks on "unity in diversity" followed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech the previous day, in which Modi warned about "infiltrators causing demographic shifts" that potentially threaten social harmony and internal security.

With input from agencies

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