New Delhi: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has strongly criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's recent remarks concerning India's Gen Z, asserting that the younger generation firmly supports Prime Minister Narendra Modi and rejects the Congress party's ideology. Rijiju's comments came in response to Gandhi's call for Gen Z to "protect the Constitution" and stop "vote theft," made shortly after his second presentation on alleged poll fraud.
Rijiju stated that it "doesn't befit" Rahul Gandhi to speak of Gen Z, arguing that it was this generation that ousted the Congress from power. He further elaborated that Gen Z embodies a "new mindset of a new generation" that aligns with PM Modi's vision. According to Rijiju, India's Gen Z opposes the control of the country by a single party or family, and is against corruption. He added that the youth's anger is directed towards those who are incapable of governing, yet seek to control the government, and against the family that has allegedly captured the Congress party. "Our government is dedicated to people. Gen Z is against the Congress," the Parliamentary Affairs Minister told ANI.
Rijiju also pointed out what he believes to be a pattern of behavior from the Congress leader. "Now, when they can't win elections, they abuse the Election Commission, put allegations of 'vote chori'. Youth are connected with Modi ji, the country stands with Modi ji," he said. He also accused Gandhi of taking an "anti-India" stance with his remarks made in Colombia.
The Union Minister's remarks highlight the escalating political tension between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress, particularly concerning the allegiance and influence of India's youth. The term "Gen Z" has gained prominence in India's political discourse, especially after youth-led protests in neighboring Nepal led to governmental change.
Rijiju's statements underscore the BJP's confidence in its appeal to young voters and its narrative of a "new India" under Modi's leadership. He accused the Congress and Left parties of attempting to derail India's progress. He also claimed that the youth connect with Modi because his government is dedicated to the people. He stated that Gen Z's new mindset ousted Congress from power.
