Rishabh Shah, founder and President of India's International Movement to Unite Nations (IIMUN), on Saturday, 8 August called for an end to derogatory language in public discourse, stating that no abusive speech should be directed at any political leader — whether the Prime Minister or the Leader of the Opposition. His remarks came in the context of videos circulating on social media allegedly showing protesters at Jantar Mantar using abusive language against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Shah's Appeal for Civility

Speaking to reporters, Shah emphasised that the responsibility for maintaining civil discourse rests with society at large, not just individuals. He said, 'I want to say that no derogatory language should be used by us against anyone, whether it is the Prime Minister or the Leader of the Opposition.'

Shah extended his concern beyond politics to the broader social environment, arguing that children absorb the values modelled by adults around them. 'Their upbringing is ultimately shaped by us. The current and previous generations are responsible for raising them, and the environment in which they grow up is also created by society,' he said.

Role of Politics and Cinema in Shaping Youth

The IIMUN President noted that both politics and cinema exert significant influence on young minds. 'Whatever we show children and whatever they see around them influences and inspires them. Therefore, society must also ask itself how it is raising the next generation, including Gen Z and Gen Alpha,' he said, adding that the collective responsibility to set the right example falls on all of society.

On Anti-National Allegations and the Jantar Mantar Protest

Asked whether anti-national elements could have been involved in the Jantar Mantar protest and whether an investigation was warranted, Shah referenced recent remarks by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat, who had stated publicly that Gen Z is not anti-national and is speaking for itself. Shah said, 'If the government or others believe that, apart from Gen Z, there were additional elements involved in the protest, then there should certainly be an inquiry. However, I believe that the vast majority of those present were members of Gen Z who were there for genuine reasons.'

Gen Z: More Similar Than Different

Shah was also asked about the apparent contrast between the Gen Z audience at Bhagwat's interaction and those who participated in the Jantar Mantar protest. He said he saw more commonalities than differences. 'Gen Z's aspirations, concerns, and priorities are largely the same. They want progress in education, climate action, and mental health, among other issues. The difference lies mainly in the way they choose to express their views,' he said.

Shah added that both forms of expression — whether at an RSS interaction or a street protest — are legitimate in a democracy. 'Both are necessary in a healthy democratic society,' he said. His remarks reflect a broader conversation in India about the boundaries of political dissent and the role of institutions in shaping civic values among younger generations.