Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader KT Rama Rao (KTR) has cautioned that India could witness protests similar to those recently seen in Nepal, driven by Gen Z's frustrations if the government fails to meet the aspirations of its people.

The Nepal Parallel

Nepal recently experienced significant political upheaval, marked by widespread protests, largely led by Generation Z. These protests weren't solely about a government ban on social media, but rather a culmination of deeper issues such as corruption, nepotism, and political instability. The demonstrations led to violent clashes, dozens of deaths, and ultimately, the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.

KTR's Warning

KTR's statement suggests a concern that similar conditions of unmet expectations and frustrations exist in India, potentially leading to similar expressions of discontent. He stressed that governments must not underestimate the power and potential of Gen Z. KTR criticized the current state of affairs, stating that while the aspirations of India's youth are soaring, the thoughts of those in power seem to be stuck on neighboring countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Underlying Issues in India

Several factors contribute to the potential for youth-led protests in India:

• Unemployment: India faces high unemployment rates, particularly among educated youth. There is a significant struggle for degree holders to secure good jobs.
• Nepotism: Concerns about nepotism are prevalent across various sectors in India, where opportunities are often perceived as being unfairly distributed based on familial connections.
• Inequality: A widening gap between the rich and the poor fuels resentment and a sense of injustice.
• Lack of Opportunities: Many young people feel a lack of meaningful opportunities for advancement and a general desperation for a better future.

Historical Context and Concerns

India has a history of student-led protests that have influenced political change. Recent years have seen young people protesting various issues, from exam paper leaks to concerns about campus bullying. The 2019 protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) demonstrated the power of youth mobilization.

Some observers have voiced concerns that youth-led protests could be exploited by external forces to destabilize the region. It's also noted that instability in neighboring Nepal could have security implications for India, including cross-border smuggling and the infiltration of anti-India elements.

Other Perspectives

While KTR suggests the possibility of Nepal-like protests in India, some analysts believe that India's stable democracy and faith in the opposition make such widespread street protests unlikely. However, they also acknowledge that political parties need to demonstrate a clear vision for addressing the challenges faced by young people.

Call to Action

KTR has urged the 380 million Gen Z youth in India to work with the government to change the world with fresh ideas. He encouraged them not to be held back by a lack of capital, but to unleash their imagination and aspirations.