17/05/2026
AISYO Statement: Withdraw the CJI’s Remarks Against Youth and Activists...................................................................
The controversial remarks were reportedly made by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on May 15, 2026, during a Supreme Court hearing related to a petition on senior advocate designation: “There are already parasites of society who attack the system... There are youngsters like cockroaches, who don't get any employment and don't have any place in the profession. Some of them become media, some of them become social media, some of them become RTI activists, some of them become other activists, and they start attacking everyone.”
At a time when millions of young people are struggling with unemployment, rising education costs, paper leaks and examination scams, shrinking job opportunities, and economic insecurity, such remarks are shocking and unacceptable. Students, unemployed youth, journalists, RTI activists, and democratic organisations raising questions on corruption, injustice, and attacks on education cannot be branded as “parasites” or “cockroaches” for speaking out.
The growing anger among youth did not emerge without reason. Unemployment continues to rise while education becomes increasingly expensive and inaccessible for ordinary people. Across the country, young people are facing insecurity and frustration about their future. In such a situation, insulting those who raise questions only reflects growing hostility towards criticism and dissent.
Activists, independent journalists, student organisations, and democratic groups have played an important role in exposing corruption and standing with people facing injustice. Questioning those in power cannot be treated as a crime. AISYO demands that these remarks be withdrawn immediately.
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A. Suresh
Convenor, AISYO
17 May 2026 | Vijayawada
