Rahul Gandhi's Gen Z rallying cry sparks BJP backlash

Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition, on Friday, took to X (formerly Twitter) to address the youth, stating:

"The Youth of the Country

The Students of the Country

The Gen Z of the Country

Will save the Constitution, protect democracy, and stop vote theft.

I always stand with them.

Jai Hind!"

The statement has drawn sharp criticism from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with party leader Amit Malviya accusing Gandhi of harbouring a “premeditated, sinister plot” against India’s democratic system. Malviya’s response questioned Gandhi’s commitment to democracy, asserting, “It is not my job to save the democratic system of India,” and described Gandhi as “dangerous” and “delusional,” calling for him to be discarded.

This controversy comes at a time when Generation Z across South Asia have become increasingly vocal on issues of governance and democracy. In neighbouring Nepal, large-scale protests organised primarily by Gen Z students erupted in September 2025.

The so-called “Gen Z protests” were sparked by a nationwide ban on multiple social media platforms and widespread frustration over corruption, misuse of public funds, and displays of wealth by government officials and their families.

The protests in Nepal rapidly escalated, encompassing broader demands for transparency, political accountability, and better governance. Unfortunately, some demonstrations turned violent, with attacks on public officials and vandalism of government and political buildings reported across the country.