Prof Sumathi

Delhi is currently buzzing with agitation driven by youth protests. Their primary demand is that the Union Education Minister take responsibility for the NEET question paper leak and resign. To the young generation of this nation: your sense of social responsibility and your outrage at injustice are the greatest strengths of democracy. That spirit is the beauty of youth; it is the hope of this country. That honesty and desire for change are the greatest pride of this nation. However, do not let that energy go to waste. If protesting is your right, protesting while protecting yourself is your duty. Yet, my central question remains: who is using this passion, and how? What is the actual ground reality? The younger generation finds itself in a volatile environment. Nothing here happens by deliberate design, but when thousands gather, anything can happen. Whether swept up in emotion to take to the streets and shout slogans, or accidentally caught in violence, a single First Information Report (FIR) filed against a youth in the next moment can turn their entire life upside down. Today's young generation standing on the protest grounds must consider tomorrow. When you complete the studies you passionately pursued and apply for a good government job or a position in a major private company, a process called 'Police Verification' will occur. If there is a pending court case against you at that time, the doors will be shut against your talent and hard work. Similarly, if you apply for a passport to pursue higher education or work abroad, this single case will halt your progress. You will be forced to wander endlessly between courts and police stations, and your years of hard work and dreams will be crushed in a single moment of emotional impulse. Evaluating Leadership and Political Literacy Reflect on this: in that moment of crisis, will any political leader or organization that gave you a voice stand at the court entrance for you? Will they take responsibility for your family's livelihood? Regardless of political affiliation, leaders across parties ensure their own children study at leading universities in America and London, securing safe futures for them. There is nothing wrong with that—it reflects their concern for their families. But shouldn't you demonstrate that same care for yourself and for the family that relies solely on you? We are not asking you to stay locked inside your homes. We are saying that you need enough political literacy to question any leader who attempts to use your emotions for personal gain, asking them: "What are the legal consequences of this? Will you take responsibility for this? Safe & Democratic Protest: Peaceful rallies, petitions, legal action (PILs), and voting are far more effective and safe ways to drive change. Violence Only Harms You: Getting caught up in violence doesn't affect leaders or organizations—it only brands you as a criminal in the eyes of the law. Knowledge is Real Power: True impact comes from getting educated, reaching positions of authority, and creating change from within the system. Your Best Weapons: Your mind, technology, pen, and independent thinking are the strongest tools you can ever wield.. You Are Irreplaceable to Your Family: To political parties, you are just a face in the crowd, but to your family, you are their sole pillar. No leader will support your family if your life is ruined. Think Independently: Take control of your own future by making decisions based on logic and critical thinking, not emotional impulse. Protect Your Future: Fighting for social causes is noble, but getting an FIR or legal trouble will only destroy your career and life goals. Be a Rational Citizen: Choose to be an informed, intellectual citizen rather than an easily manipulated, emotional follower. Good morning! 🙏