Congress MP Manish Tewari has called for an in-depth study of the Gen Z protests that have recently led to governmental changes in three South Asian countries. Tewari's statement highlights the significant impact of the younger generation's activism on the political landscape of the region.

Tewari pointed to the ousting of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in Sri Lanka in July 2023, Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh in July 2024, and K.P. Sharma Oli in Nepal in September 2025 as examples of Gen Z-driven change. He argues that these events, along with ongoing protests against Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in the Philippines, share a common thread: the rejection of entitlement by Gen X, Y, and Z.

The Congress MP's initial comments, made in September 2025, sparked a debate with the ruling BJP, who interpreted them as a veiled criticism of the Congress party's leadership, specifically targeting Rahul Gandhi. The BJP IT cell convener, Amit Malviya, called Rahul Gandhi the "ultimate 'Nepokid' of Indian politics," while another BJP MP, Sambit Patra, claimed that India had already removed the "Nepo kid" in 2014.

Tewari refuted these claims, emphasizing that his remarks should not be viewed through the lens of Congress versus BJP politics. He stressed the serious national security implications of the events unfolding in South Asia and the importance of understanding them in the correct perspective. He said that unemployment and income inequality are being harnessed and weaponized for purposes of regime change and that South Asia is in a delicate phase where all nations need to be careful.

The political upheaval in Nepal, marked by violent Gen Z-led uprisings, has further amplified concerns in India, with opposition parties cautioning the government about potential spillover unrest. Tewari has warned that South Asia is in a "delicate phase" and that the legitimate grievances and aspirations of young people, especially those suffering from unemployment, are being exploited.

Tewari's call for a study of these Gen Z protests underscores the need to understand the underlying factors driving this phenomenon. These include, but aren't limited to: socio-economic issues, political disillusionment, and the power of social media in mobilizing collective action. By analyzing these factors, policymakers and experts can better address the concerns of the younger generation and promote stability in the region.