As long as there is social discrimination, reservation will continue: Mohan Bhagwat
Reservation Will Continue As Long As There Is Social Discrimination: Bhagwat
Bharatmorningnews.com – Mohan Bhagwat, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s national leader, reaffirmed that reservation policies will remain a cornerstone of Indian society. Speaking at a Gen Z outreach event in Mumbai on Thursday, the RSS chief emphasized that the system of providing reservations in education and employment sectors will persist as long as there is social discrimination within society. This fundamental principle, he noted, reflects the enduring wisdom of Dr. BR Ambedkar’s vision for social justice.
Ambedkar’s Legacy and Reservation Framework
Bhagwat expressed his complete alignment with Dr. BR Ambedkar’s perspective on the reservation framework. He noted that implementing Ambedkar’s recommendations faithfully would resolve potential concerns about the system’s longevity. The RSS chief emphasized that reservation exists primarily due to social reasons, making it a necessary tool for addressing historical inequalities.
I will go with what Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar thought about reservation. If we honestly follow his advice, then there is no problem. Reservation exists due to social reasons. As long as there is social discrimination, reservation will continue.
Passing Benefits Forward
The RSS chief highlighted emerging voices among reservation beneficiaries who believe the benefits should eventually be extended to others. He mentioned that several states have called for categorization, and the Supreme Court has also made relevant observations on this matter.
According to Bhagwat, a segment of those receiving reservations view it as a temporary measure for their own upliftment rather than a permanent fixture. He stated that this group believes they should utilize the opportunity to improve themselves and subsequently help those who have not yet received benefits. Such attitudes should be nurtured, he added, noting that political manipulation over this issue has created unnecessary tensions.
A few voices have started coming up that they received it, benefited, and now it should be given to others. There have been demands for categorisation in a few states. The Supreme Court, too, had made an observation. There is a stream among those who get the reservation that this is for our upliftment and not a permanent measure, and we have to take advantage of this, improve ourselves, and make this useful for others who haven’t got it yet. This should be encouraged. Politics should not be done over this. If all measures are properly implemented, soon its need would end. It will then be thought about. But politics was done over it, which creates bad blood.
Education Reform Priorities
Bhagwat also advocated for thorough changes in India’s education system, arguing that superficial adjustments would not suffice. He emphasized that education should serve people rather than function as a commercial enterprise.
I’ll tell you, two or three are needed. Education is not a business, and we need to provide education to all. We need to work on fee structures.
He supported calls to increase India’s budget allocation for education to six percent. Public involvement in both school development and quality enhancement was highlighted as crucial. Additionally, Bhagwat stressed the importance of focusing on teacher training programs.
Public participation is important in education, from school development to quality education. Focus on teachers’ training. We are giving education to educate people, not for business.
Understanding the New Generation
The RSS chief drew distinctions between Gen Z and earlier generations, noting that younger people seek reasoned explanations rather than simply accepting authority.
When we were of their age (youth), we would listen to our elders. We never used to question. Now, the Gen Z wants logical answers.
Addressing concerns about youth protests, Bhagwat clarified that Gen Z demonstrators are not anti-national elements. He expressed confidence that this generation, along with Gen Alpha, demonstrates greater honesty compared to current adults, and that appeals to patriotism and service resonate strongly with them.
If Gen Z is protesting, they are not anti-nationals. They are our own people, our next generation… I do not believe Gen Z is like that… I think the new generation – the Gen Z and Gen Alpha – is more honest than our existing generation, and the honest appeal of patriotism and service works with them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Mohan Bhagwat say about reservation policy?
Mohan Bhagwat stated that reservation will continue as long as there is social discrimination in society. He emphasized that this principle aligns with Dr. BR Ambedkar’s vision and serves as a necessary tool for addressing historical inequalities.
What is Bhagwat’s view on extending reservation benefits?
The RSS chief noted that some reservation beneficiaries believe benefits should eventually be extended to others. He mentioned that several states have called for categorization, and the Supreme Court has made relevant observations on this matter.
What education reforms did Bhagwat propose?
Bhagwat advocated for increasing India’s budget allocation for education to six percent, improving fee structures, enhancing public participation in school development, and focusing on teacher training programs.
How does Bhagwat view Gen Z protesters?
He clarified that Gen Z demonstrators are not anti-national elements. Bhagwat expressed confidence that this generation demonstrates greater honesty compared to current adults, and that appeals to patriotism and service resonate strongly with them.