Rethinking power, representation, and future of democracy The need for Gen Z’s political leaders in India
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Edmund Shinghor R
India today stands at a decisive generational turning point. With more than 65% of its population below the age of 35, it has the largest youth population in the world. Every day, India is being reshaped by the hopes, frustrations, creativity, and determination of its young people. Yet when we look at the political arena, the distance between those who hold power and the millions they represent feels wider than ever. This is exactly where the generation born between 1997 and 2012 the Gen Z’s steps into the national conversation with a different kind of clarity. They are unafraid to question outdated systems, challenge inherited injustices, and demand an India that is more compassionate, more efficient, and more prepared for the future. As the world’s largest democracy moves deeper into the 21st century, one thing becomes impossible to ignore that is India’s political destiny will be shaped not only by institutions and parties, but by the imagination, courage, and leadership of its youngest citizens. Gen Z is not waiting to inherit the future, they are insisting on building it.
Bridging the Gap
Indian parliamentary politics has traditionally been led by older representatives, and party structures often emphasize seniority and established networks, which can limit opportunities for younger voices. The 2024 Lok Sabha elections, however, disrupted this pattern in meaningful ways. It showed that India is ready to embrace young leadership. Several young candidates in their mid 20s to early 30s won seats, demonstrating that voters are increasingly open to youthful leadership. Their campaigns relied heavily on digital outreach, community based engagement, and a focus on local issues rather than traditional vote bank politics. Their victories were not merely symbolic; they represented a structural shift in how political legitimacy is earned in India. When young MPs enter Parliament, they bring with them the lived experiences, anxieties, and aspirations of an entire generation that has grown up in a world shaped by technological disruption, climate uncertainty, and social diversity.
From voters to policymakers
Gen Z has the potential to redefine what political participation looks like in the contemporary world. Through electoral engagement, grassroots organizing, and leadership in civic movements, young people can move from being passive observers to active political actors who shape governance priorities and strengthen democratic institutions.Many underestimate the power of local politics, but contesting panchayat, ward, or city council elections builds credibility, networks, and hands on experience. These early steps matter, they teach negotiation, public speaking, budgeting, and the art of solving real problems for real people.Their greatest strength, however, lies in communication. Gen Z intuitively understands the digital world: using social media responsibly to educate, mobilize, and hold institutions accountable can shift public opinion faster than traditional campaigns ever could. When used with intention, these platforms become tools for civic education, not just entertainment.They can also push for transparency in governance by attending public hearings, filing RTIs, participating in budget consultations, and demanding accountability from elected representatives. When youth show up consistently, institutions are forced to listen, Politics becomes stronger. They bring new language, new priorities, and new imagination to governance. They remind society that democracy is not inherited; it is renewed by every generation that chooses to participate.
A New Political Consciousness
Gen Z in India is not apolitical; they are differently political. Their activism is not confined to party lines or ideological boxes. Instead, they mobilize around issues like climate justice, gender equality,LGBTQ+ rights, mental health, unemployment, caste discrimination, educational reform, digital rights etc. This shift from personality driven politics to issue driven politics is one of the most significant transformations in India’s democratic culture. It signals a desire for governance that is transparent, accountable, and rooted in lived realities rather than rhetoric.Gen Z also brings an entrepreneurial mindset shaped by India’s booming startup culture. They are problem solvers who value innovation, adaptability, and creativity qualities which are essential for public policy in a rapidly changing world. Their global awareness, shaped by digital connectivity and exposure to international movements, allows them to understand India’s place in a shifting geopolitical landscape and articulate a modern, confident national identity.Perhaps the most transformative aspect of Gen Z leadership is their reimagining of power itself. For them, power is not about domination or hierarchy; it is about impact, collaboration, and participation. If they enter politics in larger numbers, they are likely to push for decentralized governance, participatory budgeting, youth advisory councils, transparent digital platforms, and evidence based policymaking. This represents not just a change in leadership but a change in the culture of power, one that is more democratic, inclusive, and responsive.
Conclusion
India’s democracy has always been a work in progress. Each generation has expanded its meaning on women, Dalits, Adivasis, linguistic minorities, and countless others have fought to be seen and heard.Now, it is Gen Z’s turn.Their entry into politics is not simply desirable; it is necessary for India to remain a living, evolving democracy. A democracy that listens. A democracy that adapts. A democracy that belongs to the future, not just the past.
The writer is lecturer in Political Science at St. Joseph’s Pre-University, Bengaluru
India today stands at a decisive generational turning point. With more than 65% of its population below the age of 35, it has the largest youth population in the world. Every day, India is being reshaped by the hopes, frustrations, creativity, and determination of its young people. Yet when we look at the political arena, the distance between those who hold power and the millions they represent feels wider than ever. This is exactly where the generation born between 1997 and 2012 the Gen Z’s steps into the national conversation with a different kind of clarity. They are unafraid to question outdated systems, challenge inherited injustices, and demand an India that is more compassionate, more efficient, and more prepared for the future. As the world’s largest democracy moves deeper into the 21st century, one thing becomes impossible to ignore that is India’s political destiny will be shaped not only by institutions and parties, but by the imagination, courage, and leadership of its youngest citizens. Gen Z is not waiting to inherit the future, they are insisting on building it.
Bridging the Gap
Indian parliamentary politics has traditionally been led by older representatives, and party structures often emphasize seniority and established networks, which can limit opportunities for younger voices. The 2024 Lok Sabha elections, however, disrupted this pattern in meaningful ways. It showed that India is ready to embrace young leadership. Several young candidates in their mid 20s to early 30s won seats, demonstrating that voters are increasingly open to youthful leadership. Their campaigns relied heavily on digital outreach, community based engagement, and a focus on local issues rather than traditional vote bank politics. Their victories were not merely symbolic; they represented a structural shift in how political legitimacy is earned in India. When young MPs enter Parliament, they bring with them the lived experiences, anxieties, and aspirations of an entire generation that has grown up in a world shaped by technological disruption, climate uncertainty, and social diversity.
From voters to policymakers
Gen Z has the potential to redefine what political participation looks like in the contemporary world. Through electoral engagement, grassroots organizing, and leadership in civic movements, young people can move from being passive observers to active political actors who shape governance priorities and strengthen democratic institutions.Many underestimate the power of local politics, but contesting panchayat, ward, or city council elections builds credibility, networks, and hands on experience. These early steps matter, they teach negotiation, public speaking, budgeting, and the art of solving real problems for real people.Their greatest strength, however, lies in communication. Gen Z intuitively understands the digital world: using social media responsibly to educate, mobilize, and hold institutions accountable can shift public opinion faster than traditional campaigns ever could. When used with intention, these platforms become tools for civic education, not just entertainment.They can also push for transparency in governance by attending public hearings, filing RTIs, participating in budget consultations, and demanding accountability from elected representatives. When youth show up consistently, institutions are forced to listen, Politics becomes stronger. They bring new language, new priorities, and new imagination to governance. They remind society that democracy is not inherited; it is renewed by every generation that chooses to participate.
A New Political Consciousness
Gen Z in India is not apolitical; they are differently political. Their activism is not confined to party lines or ideological boxes. Instead, they mobilize around issues like climate justice, gender equality,LGBTQ+ rights, mental health, unemployment, caste discrimination, educational reform, digital rights etc. This shift from personality driven politics to issue driven politics is one of the most significant transformations in India’s democratic culture. It signals a desire for governance that is transparent, accountable, and rooted in lived realities rather than rhetoric.Gen Z also brings an entrepreneurial mindset shaped by India’s booming startup culture. They are problem solvers who value innovation, adaptability, and creativity qualities which are essential for public policy in a rapidly changing world. Their global awareness, shaped by digital connectivity and exposure to international movements, allows them to understand India’s place in a shifting geopolitical landscape and articulate a modern, confident national identity.Perhaps the most transformative aspect of Gen Z leadership is their reimagining of power itself. For them, power is not about domination or hierarchy; it is about impact, collaboration, and participation. If they enter politics in larger numbers, they are likely to push for decentralized governance, participatory budgeting, youth advisory councils, transparent digital platforms, and evidence based policymaking. This represents not just a change in leadership but a change in the culture of power, one that is more democratic, inclusive, and responsive.
Conclusion
India’s democracy has always been a work in progress. Each generation has expanded its meaning on women, Dalits, Adivasis, linguistic minorities, and countless others have fought to be seen and heard.Now, it is Gen Z’s turn.Their entry into politics is not simply desirable; it is necessary for India to remain a living, evolving democracy. A democracy that listens. A democracy that adapts. A democracy that belongs to the future, not just the past.
The writer is lecturer in Political Science at St. Joseph’s Pre-University, Bengaluru