Abusive remarks cannot define India’s Gen Z: Gaurav

JAMMU: BJP Spokesperson and Convenor, International Affairs, J&K, Gaurav Gupta expressed concern over a video circulating on social media that purportedly shows some participants at the recent Jantar Mantar protest using objectionable language against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and referring disrespectfully to his late mother, Heeraben Modi. Gupta said the authenticity and complete context of the video should be properly examined by the competent authorities before responsibility is fixed. At the same time, he maintained that personal abuse particularly against a deceased family member who had no connection with politics could not be defended as legitimate democratic expression. “Students and young people have every right to raise concerns over examination irregularities, paper leaks, employment and accountability. Their genuine grievances deserve a patient hearing and a time-bound institutional response. However, disagreement with the government should remain focused on policies and decisions, not descend into personal attacks against political leaders or their families,” Gupta said. He stressed that the reported conduct of a few individuals should not be used to discredit the entire protest or portray all Gen Z participants negatively. “India’s young generation is thoughtful, creative and deeply conscious of public issues. The objectionable conduct of a handful of people must not be attributed to every student present at Jantar Mantar. Equally, protest organisers have a responsibility to discourage abusive language and preserve the dignity of their movement,” he added. Gupta said Prime Minister Modi’s late mother lived a private and dignified life away from active politics. Referring to her in an abusive or insulting manner, if the allegations are verified, would cross the accepted boundaries of civil political discourse. “Criticism of the Prime Minister and the government is a democratic right. But a departed mother should not be dragged into political disagreements. Indian democracy becomes stronger when debate is firm, factual and respectful,” he stated. The BJP spokesperson urged political parties, protest organisers and public representatives not to exploit the incident for further polarisation. He said the focus should remain on addressing students’ legitimate concerns while maintaining peace, dignity and mutual respect. Gupta also appealed to the authorities to verify the circulating material objectively and proceed strictly in accordance with the law, without targeting peaceful protesters or ignoring any genuine violation. “Neither students’ concerns should be dismissed because of the actions of a few individuals, nor should personal abuse be normalised in the name of protest. Dialogue, accountability and democratic restraint must guide everyone,” Gaurav Gupta concluded.