NEW DELHI, India: Growing frustration among young Indians over unemployment, limited opportunities and government policies has fuelled a wave of protests against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, raising questions about his popularity among Generation Z.
Thousands of young demonstrators have taken to the streets in New Delhi and other cities, challenging police barricades and demanding political accountability.
According to Reuters, the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data (ACLED) Project expects street protests in India this year to reach their highest level in a decade.
Unemployment Fuels Youth Anger
Employment remains a central grievance among young Indians, many of whom believe Modi’s government has failed to fulfil promises of economic opportunity.
Despite strong economic growth, government figures put unemployment among people aged 15–29 at 9.9% in 2025.
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Research by Azim Premji University found unemployment among graduates aged 15–25 approaching 40%, highlighting difficulties facing educated young people.
Repeated examination paper leaks have further intensified frustration among students seeking admission to universities and government employment.
Political Grievances Deepen
Protesters have also questioned electoral procedures, saying that voter roll revisions favour Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Youth activists have additionally criticised religious polarisation, discrimination against minorities and the government’s handling of dissent.
The emergence of the Cockroach Janta Party, a youth-led movement originating from online satire, has helped mobilise younger demonstrators through social media.
Political Challenge for Modi
Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi has joined demonstrations, reflecting renewed political mobilisation against the government.
Modi’s government remains stable, with India’s next general election scheduled for 2029.
Upcoming elections in Uttar Pradesh could offer an early indication of whether growing youth dissatisfaction is affecting the BJP’s electoral support.
The protests nevertheless highlight a widening gap between economic aspirations and opportunities available to India’s younger generation.
