India’s Gen Z movement raises pressure on Modi government

NEW DELHI: A growing youth-led protest movement is emerging as one of the most significant political challenges to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term, with demonstrations spreading across parts of India over allegations of examination irregularities, unemployment and demands for greater government accountability.

What began as an online campaign has evolved into a nationwide movement driven largely by Generation Z, reflecting mounting frustration among young Indians over limited job opportunities and concerns about the country’s education system.

The movement, associated with the youth-led platform known as the “Cockroach Janata Party,” initially focused on alleged examination scandals but has since broadened into a wider campaign calling for institutional reforms and political accountability. Protesters are demanding the resignation of the country’s education minister and greater transparency in the recruitment and examination process.

The demonstrations have gained further momentum following activist Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike and his reported forced relocation, developments that have intensified public debate and drawn fresh attention to the broader protest movement.

According to international media reports, the unrest represents one of the strongest waves of public pressure faced by Modi’s government since it began its third consecutive term. Analysts say the protests highlight deeper concerns among young voters, particularly over unemployment, education and confidence in public institutions.

Tensions escalated during a protest march toward Parliament, where demonstrators clashed with security forces. Official figures said at least 180 people were injured, including 118 police officers and 60 protesters, as authorities moved to disperse crowds. Mobile internet services were also suspended in several sensitive areas to prevent the spread of unrest.

Observers say the movement’s rapid rise demonstrates the increasing influence of social media in mobilising young people. What started as a satirical online campaign quickly transformed into an organised street movement, giving voice to a generation that believes its economic and educational concerns have gone unanswered.

Political analysts note that while the protests remain centred on education and employment, they could carry broader political implications if public dissatisfaction continues to grow. The government’s response in the coming weeks is expected to be closely watched, as it seeks to balance law and order with demands for reform.

Although it remains uncertain how the movement will develop, the ongoing demonstrations underscore the growing political engagement of India’s younger generation and the challenges facing the Modi administration as it navigates rising public expectations during its third term in office.