Rohit Pawar, a Nationalist Congress Party MLA from Karjat‑Jamkhed, told NDTV at the Yuva Conclave that Gen Z protests in Delhi forced a minister to resign. These demonstrations, part of the Cockroach Janata Party movement, drew more than 10,000 youth who marched for accountability over the NEET exam. Pawar said the wave of dissent has left established politicians nervous.
Pawar added that the leadership is now scrambling to reach Gen Z through social‑media campaigns and targeted policy pitches. He warned that symbolic gestures—such as Prime Minister Modi's appearance at a devotional event—won't convince a generation that watches every move.
He cited Maharashtra officer Tukaram Mundhe, whose results‑driven work in local infrastructure won Gen Z approval, as an example of authenticity paying off. Pawar stressed that politicians who address concrete issues like education reform, employment and health will secure youth support. He cautioned that any half‑hearted effort will be flagged as inauthentic.
The NCP leader cited the CJP protests in Delhi as a case where caste and religion were eclipsed by a unified demand for accountability and resignations. He said that despite attempts by factions to inject religious or caste rhetoric, the youth remained focused on systemic injustice. Pawar suggested that this trend could usher in a new era of issue‑based politics.
With 55% of India’s population aged 18‑40, Gen Z's social‑media presence is a force that politicians cannot ignore. Pawar said that the next step for political parties is to unveil clear road‑maps for education, employment and health in the coming weeks.