A Divided Perspective on the Role of Young Indians in Shaping the Nation’s Democracy

Key Highlights

1. Growing Disinterest: A 2025 Pew Research survey reveals that 61% of young Indians feel disillusioned with politics, citing corruption and lack of transparency.
2. Rising Engagement: Despite skepticism, 39% of youth actively participate in grassroots movements, digital activism, and local governance.
3. The Debate: Should India’s youth avoid political participation due to systemic flaws, or can their involvement lead to transformative change?

Introduction

India’s democracy has always relied on the energy and vision of its youth. Yet, as the world evolves and challenges grow, young Indians are increasingly divided on whether political participation is still relevant. While some see it as a platform for societal transformation, others believe that the system is too corrupt and stagnant to warrant their engagement. This debate underscores the complexities of engaging with politics in the modern age.

The Case Against Political Participation

1. Disillusionment with the System

• Corruption and Nepotism: A 2024 ADR report revealed that nearly 70% of elected representatives in India faced allegations of corruption or criminal charges. This discourages many young people from entering what they perceive as a tainted space.
• Dynastic Dominance: With 28% of MPs in the 2024 Lok Sabha coming from political families, meritocracy often takes a backseat, further alienating independent young aspirants.

2. Lack of Real Impact

• Token Representation: Many youth wings, such as the ABVP and NSUI, focus more on reflecting party agendas than driving grassroots change.
• Frustration with Bureaucracy: Slow implementation of policies and bureaucratic hurdles dissuade youth from believing in the efficacy of political engagement.

3. Alternatives to Traditional Politics

• Digital Activism: Platforms like Twitter and Instagram provide young people with avenues to voice opinions and mobilize support without engaging in formal politics.
• Social Entrepreneurship: Many youth see starting NGOs or community projects as more effective ways to address societal challenges than entering politics.

The Case for Political Participation

1. A Platform for Change

• Policy Influence: Politics remains the most powerful tool to enact large-scale societal reforms, from education to healthcare and climate policy.
• Examples of Impact:
  • Leaders like Raghav Chadha (AAP) and Chandrashekhar Azad (Bhim Army) have used their platforms to advocate for fiscal responsibility and caste equity.

2. Representation Matters

• Demographic Majority: With over 50% of India’s population under 30, youth engagement in politics is essential for creating policies that reflect their priorities.
• Local Governance: Young leaders in Panchayati Raj institutions and urban municipal bodies are already driving community-focused solutions.

3. Challenging the Status Quo

• Breaking Barriers: By entering politics, youth can challenge corruption, nepotism, and outdated ideologies from within.
• Global Examples: Leaders like Finland’s Sanna Marin, one of the world’s youngest Prime Ministers, showcase how young politicians can bring innovation to governance.

Balancing the Debate

While the disillusionment of today’s youth with traditional politics is understandable, avoiding political participation entirely risks leaving decision-making in the hands of the status quo. Conversely, engaging in politics offers the opportunity to redefine leadership, though it demands resilience and a willingness to navigate systemic flaws.

Conclusion

The relevance of political participation for today’s youth depends on their vision for the future. While systemic corruption and dynastic dominance deter many, others see it as a necessary battleground for change. Whether through activism, grassroots movements, or formal politics, the youth hold the power to reshape India’s democracy. The choice is not merely whether to participate, but how to do so in a way that aligns with their ideals and aspirations. The question remains: Will India’s youth rise to the challenge or let disillusionment dictate their role in the nation’s future?