Like students of the past, Gen Z is telling truth to power — government should listen

Indians in their youthful years have long demonstrated a propensity to speak against authority, a trait that has manifested itself in various forms throughout the nation's history. The current generation of students, known as Gen Z, is no exception, as they have emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the political landscape. This assertion was driven by the 2026 uprising following the NEET exam paper leaks and the government's inability to address the issue with the required sensitivity. This momentous event has proven to be a wake-up call for the government and the entire nation.

Students, burdened by anxiety and apprehensions about the future, found their voice in unison, challenging the status quo and compelling the government to budge. Their determination to expose the truth and hold those in power accountable has been nothing short of inspiring. The once pervasive climate of fear and intimidation has been bravely dismantled, allowing students to stand united, transcending the boundaries of caste, language, region, and religion.

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), born out of a satirical online response, served as a symbol of the government's resistance to change. However, the movement, lacking a charismatic leader, swiftly turned into a mass movement, uniting students across India. The grievances that fueled this movement were deeply rooted, encompassing issues such as a broken education system, rising youth unemployment, and widening inequality.

While the establishment of a high-powered committee under Nandan Nilekani and the enactment of strong laws were steps in the right direction, they were insufficient to tackle the systemic collapse. A comprehensive approach was necessary, addressing the underlying causes and engaging stakeholders in a democratic and meaningful way. Education reforms must aim to restore the integrity and credibility of the system, regaining the trust and confidence of the students.

The history of India is replete with instances of student uprisings demanding reforms, rights, and change. The 1972 student revolt in European universities and the subsequent events in 1974, such as the Gujarat students' Navnirman Andolan and the JP-led students' agitation in Bihar, led to significant political transformations. The peaceful democratic protest's moral force cannot be underestimated, and a proportional response is crucial to ensure a positive outcome.

In the current context, it is essential to heal and reevaluate the protocols of crowd management and control in civilian protests. Law enforcement agencies must approach the situation with humanity and in line with the practices followed in mature democracies. Violence, the use of pellet guns, vulgarity, and abuse have no place in such situations.

India, with its demographic dividend, must harness the potential of its young and energetic populace through education, skill-building, and employment opportunities. The stage is set for India to seize the opportunity and shape its future.