'Nobody knew them, now they're everywhere': VP Radhakrishnan warns youth may follow 'cockroaches' if positive news is ignored

NEW DELHI: Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Sunday said that young people could end up following the "cockroach" if positive developments and achievements are not reported adequately.Speaking at an event, Radhakrishnan said the media has a responsibility to highlight positive stories that can inspire society and guide the younger generation."Positive activities should be reported well. Only then will youngsters receive the right information. Otherwise, they will lose interest and end up following the 'cockroach'," he said.While affirming that he was not opposed to freedom of expression, the Vice President questioned the tendency to give excessive attention to issues that may not have lasting significance.Apparently referring to the recent popularity of the satirical social media platform Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), particularly among young people, Radhakrishnan said fleeting trends should not overshadow meaningful developments."If something is genuinely good, people will continue to recognise its value after a week, 10 days, or even a month," he said, according to news agency PTI."Nobody knows about them. All of a sudden, they are everywhere. That cannot last," he added.The Cockroach Janata Party emerged on social media last week following a controversy over remarks attributed to Chief Justice of India Surya Kant during a court hearing on the "senior" designation of lawyers.The platform quickly gained attention among young users through memes and satirical commentary on issues such as unemployment, examination paper leaks and education-related concerns.The CJI later clarified that his observations, directed at individuals entering the legal profession through "fake and bogus degrees", had been misquoted.The Vice President said that constructive reporting helps build public confidence, inspires collective action and motivates citizens to contribute to nation-building.According to the VP, stories highlighting compassion, scientific achievements, community service, environmental protection and human accomplishment can become powerful tools for social change.Also read: Kaun Banega Cockroach: Why are millions joining the Cockroach Janta Party? Theories behind the phenomenon