The right to peaceful protest is a cornerstone of India’s democracy. It enables citizens to express dissent and demand accountability. However, this right also carries a responsibility: those participating should understand the cause they seek to support. A protest draws its legitimacy not from the size of the crowd but from the awareness and conviction of its participants. The recent protests at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi and Freedom Park in Bengaluru over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination prompted an important question. During my visit to the Freedom Park gathering, I found that several participants were unable to explain the issues surrounding NEET or the reasons behind demands for the resignation of the Union Education Minister and the Prime Minister. While this does not reflect every protester, it raises concerns about whether some demonstrations are driven more by political mobilisation than informed public participation. The atmosphere at the venue also appeared inconsistent with the seriousness of the issue. Some participants seemed more engaged with their mobile phones than the speeches, while others were seen smoking during the event. Rumours also circulated among some attendees that incentives, including beer, would be available after the protest. These claims remain unverified and should not be accepted without credible evidence, yet they illustrate how easily the credibility of a public movement can be questioned. The same principle applies to debates on laws such as the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA). Whether one supports or opposes such legislation is a matter of personal opinion, but public participation should be based on an understanding of the law rather than political slogans or social media narratives.

Democracy needs informed citizens, not uninformed crowds. India’s youth possess immense potential to shape the nation’s future, but meaningful change begins with knowledge, critical thinking, and responsible participation. Before joining any protest, every citizen should ask one simple question: Do I truly understand the cause I am supporting? Only then can protests remain instruments of justice rather than political spectacles.

Subh Sankar