Mangaluru: Kanhaiya Kumar, former president of Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union, has said “ In the last 70 years, progress is seen in many fields, but we did not progress as much as we expected. In some matters, instead of going forwards, we are moving backwards. When we speak about present political scenario, there is no much progress. Instead of heading forward we are moving backwards .

He was speaking on the topic, ‘Indian Youth on Crossroads’. The talk was held as part of the two-day B V Kakkilaya centenary programme, here at Bishop Jatthana auditorium in Balmatta on Saturday, August 10.

“The present political system was pushing the youth to go on the street on the grounds of culture and nationalism and fight against fellow citizens, a thought is put in our head that politics is a wrong field. Hence, no one prefers to opt it as a career, because we are brought up in such social conditioning. We are taught about our citizenship right and how to lead our life. We are opting our careers depending on what the market requires,” pointed Dr Kumar.

“Religion is the only thing where a sense of association is created. We are in a situation where theology is heavier than economy. There is no solution yet, to improve our economy. Youth face several problems such as prioritizing between job and religion, life and religious pride. This is where youth fail to decide. Economy has shrunk, because religious symbolism and communal politics has entered into our country.”

“If you are a ‘bhakt’ of the country, then you should ask questions. When questions are raised, then the person who questions is labelled as anti-national. Those who show patriotism and blind belief towards the government, remember you are doing the traitors job. If you love your country, then do not pose questions to the weaker ones. Ask questions with the stronger ones and show the true meaning of democracy. Being democratic means asking questions to the government,” said Kumar.

“Youth today have access to information. We should not lose hope. The present situation is created because of our past; the way we behave today will decide our future. The youth who are born in 90s have witnessed rapid cultural changes. Our role is to go back to the historical root. We should train youth to be in a democratic party and try training people democratically. Government comes and goes, but those who try to divert you by saying ‘bhai’ or ‘beheno’, remember one thing that democracy was there, will be there and shall remain forever,” he added.

“Youth are ready to listen and understand. But never say to youth that they are fools and are not able to understand things. Instead of ignoring youth, build good rapport with us and answer the questions which are raised at you. Don’t fall prey to the perception politics, but understand the reality. I am not fighting to be a politician,” said Dr Kumar.

Pic’s : Eswarraj