Youth Engagement in Dialogue: A Call for Representation from Gen Z

Abhijit Deepke, founder of the Cockroach People's Party, advocates for greater youth representation in dialogues, particularly emphasizing the importance of Gen Z voices. Ahead of a significant event with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, Deepke highlights the need for young leaders to engage with their peers. He also addresses ongoing protests in Jharkhand regarding exam paper leaks, showcasing the challenges faced by students. This article explores the critical role of youth in shaping the future and the necessity of including their perspectives in national discussions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 4, 2026, 18:13 IST

Dialogue with Youth: A Step Forward

On August 4, in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Abhijit Deepke, the founder of the Cockroach People's Party (CAZPA), expressed his support for engaging with the youth. He emphasized that it would be even more beneficial if the dialogue were led by representatives from the younger generation, particularly Gen Z. This statement was made ahead of a proposed discussion between Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and students in Mumbai.

Scheduled for August 6, the event will gather over 2,000 students aged 15 to 19 from more than 100 cities across the country. Those born between 1997 and 2012 are categorized as Gen Z, while children born from 2013 to 2024 are referred to as Gen Alpha. Following youth protests led by CAZPA against the leak of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) question paper, Dharmendra Pradhan resigned from his position as Union Education Minister on July 25.

When asked about Bhagwat's upcoming event in Mumbai, Deepke remarked, "It's great that a dialogue is taking place, but it would be even better if some young faces were put forward for this discussion." He noted, "The youth have compelled this change. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is posting reels on Instagram, and Mohan Bhagwat wants to engage with Gen Z as well." Speaking to reporters at his residence in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Deepke added, "Although it may be late, they have realized that Gen Z cannot be ignored or dismissed, and we must engage with them. These young individuals are the future of our nation."

Deepke stressed the importance of youth representation for Gen Z. He stated, "If the individuals engaging with the youth are from Gen Z or are young themselves, it would be even more effective. While it's fine for older individuals to speak, what value does it bring to Gen Z?"

He further claimed that the Jharkhand government is neglecting the students who are protesting there. Since July 29, students have been staging an indefinite protest at the Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi over alleged question paper leaks in the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) exams and other recruitment tests.

Deepke mentioned that he has spoken with the protesting students in Jharkhand over the phone. He said, "They are not being allowed to set up their tents, and there are no toilet facilities for them. They are facing treatment similar to what we experienced at Jantar Mantar (in New Delhi last month), but we stand with the protesting students in Jharkhand."

CAZPA stands in solidarity with these activists.