'They have lost their way': PM Modi forgives abuse against him, late mother; calls to guide youths

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday appealed for compassion towards young people who used abusive language during a protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, saying punishment alone would not solve the problem and urging society to help guide them back on the right path.

In a video shared on Instagram, Modi said he understood the public outrage over the language used at the protest, including remarks directed at him and his late mother. However, he stressed that those responsible should be counselled rather than ostracised.

'Show them the right path'

Referring to the protest, Modi said some "mischievous children" had used language that had no place in a civilised society.

"I was personally abused, and even my late mother was subjected to abuse. It was a truly ugly spectacle," he said.

The Prime Minister acknowledged that many people were shocked by the incident, particularly because some of those involved were young women.

"It comes as a cultural shock to see our daughters using such language. Yet, now is the time to embrace these children and show them the right path. They have lost their way, and it is our duty to guide them," he said.

Modi said mistakes were a part of growing up and that youth should be given an opportunity to learn from them.

'Punishment alone will not change anything'

The Prime Minister said taking young people through lengthy legal proceedings or subjecting them to social harassment would not improve the situation.

"I want to forgive them. Society, too, should accept this," he said.

Drawing an analogy, Modi said that when the tongue is accidentally bitten by the teeth, people do not break their teeth because both belong to the same body.

"These children are ours, too. It is our duty to show them the right path," he said.

He acknowledged that guiding those who had gone astray was difficult but said it was a responsibility society must fulfil.

Calling on the youths involved to move forward positively, Modi said he remained committed to their future and encouraged them to learn from their mistakes while working towards their dreams.

"The country is moving forward and is poised for further progress, and it is my dream that you, too, move forward. I live for you; I dedicate myself to your bright future," he said.

Earlier, Noida Police registered an FIR against a woman over allegedly objectionable remarks directed at the Prime Minister during the CJP protest over the NEET paper leak.

The developments come after Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as Education Minister following the protests. Parliament on Thursday also passed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, aimed at strengthening the legal framework to prevent examination paper leaks.