Mayawati accuses political parties of hijacking Gen-Z movement, urges peaceful resolution
Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati on Sunday expressed concern that movements focusing on the problems of Gen-Z youth and unemployed people are being "hijacked" by political parties. In a post on social media platform X, the former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister said this trend has raised serious doubts among young people and students about the independence of such agitations.
Mayawati referred to what she called the 'CJP's Gen-Z movement' concerning the burning issues of youth, students, and unemployed people. She said there were many examples in the country that led people to believe that the movement has increasingly become political rather than remaining independent. The youth and students who were shown "big dreams" during the Jantar Mantar movement were now facing serious doubts as various political parties had allegedly taken over such movements, she added.
However, Mayawati clarified that the BSP has always sympathised with and remained concerned about the legitimate demands of Gen-Z and Gen-Alpha. She said all BSP state units have been directed to meet the authorities concerned in their respective states and regions and to remain ready to help ensure a peaceful resolution of the problems faced by young people.
At the same time, she instructed BSP workers to refrain from participating in dharnas, demonstrations, or agitations, in accordance with party discipline. Instead, she advised them to "conserve their physical, mental and financial strength and energy for elections." Mayawati stated that the BSP's objective is to form a government based on the principle of "Sarvajan Hitay, Sarvajan Sukhay" (welfare and happiness for all) and to provide lasting solutions to the problems of Gen-Z, Gen-Alpha, and all sections of society. She claimed that the party had demonstrated this during its four terms in power in Uttar Pradesh.
Referring to the alleged assault of Sanjay Azad during the Gen-Z movement at Jantar Mantar, Mayawati said the serious incident could have been avoided had the police taken appropriate action in time. She demanded the strictest legal action against those accused in the case and said the BSP would not remain behind in raising its voice in such matters if necessary.
The case pertains to the alleged assault of Mr. Azad, who is the father of a minor activist, by an individual named Swatantra Bhardwaj. According to reports, Bhardwaj inflicted a head injury on Azad. Bhardwaj was later arrested in connection with the case after he reportedly boasted about the assault and claimed impunity due to his ties with leaders of a political party and a minister. The incident has drawn attention to the conduct of individuals claiming connections to political figures and the broader issue of safety for protesters.
The Gen-Z movement at Jantar Mantar has been a focal point for youth and student groups demanding action on unemployment and other pressing issues. Mayawati's remarks highlight the ongoing debate over whether such movements remain genuinely independent or become susceptible to political influence. Her call for peaceful resolution and legal action reflects a stance that prioritises institutional mechanisms over street protests.
