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Being young and political in India
India has more than 50% of its population below the age of 25 and more than 65% below the age of 35. By 2030, India's dependency ratio will be just over 0.4. These statistics are undeniable proof that India's youth are a diverse and dynamic population, with growing importance and presence in the political arena. With the emergence and popularity of social media and public platforms, young people have tightened their powers and raised their voices against the issues that concern them and others. Youth political bodies of various national and state parties are often visible displaying their protest and concern in mainstream media and on the roads.
Despite the arguments and concerns over youth and student participation in politics, it goes without saying that not engaging in politics is like being drowned but insisting you don't need to be saved. politics has existed ever since human beings decided to be in organised groups. and it will continue to exist until the end.
In history, every time the youth of India came together to fight for a cause, it led to revolutions and significant historical changes, From the 1920 protests over academic discrimination between English and Indian students to The JP movement in Bihar and the protest against the imposition of emergency and the recent CAA protests, the youth contributed to many such turnovers in our history.
Despite playing a crucial role in the political landscape, the youth of India find it difficult to emerge into the main scene with many political parties being playgrounds of dynastic succession. They are often challenged with the obstacles of power and wealth that reside within many senior members. Moreover, ageism and stereotypes might question the competence of young leaders, undermining their credibility.
But in recent days a strange structure of politics in India emerged to be that the educated class of our country does not have a significant vote ratio nor participate in active politics. The reason many questionable leaders come to power is not because people voted for them but because the educated urban class did not exercise their vote for them. The Greek philosopher Plato quoted that "One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics, is that you end up being governed by your inferiors.” The urban youth, who currently resides on the throne of privilege, do not indulge in activities that do not affect them directly. The lacks of empathy and political aspirations drive the educated class far away from the political space, thus reducing their significance in the said field. To be apolitical is to be selfish. Or it is ignorance. In Einstien's words, " Politics is more difficult than physics". To indulge yourselves in the matters of society is not a pleasant task. One must be mentally armed to face the people, the opinions, the judgements and the arguments. India's political landscape is evolving, and the active participation of young people is vital in steering the nation toward progress, inclusivity, and prosperity. Embracing their voices and perspectives will undoubtedly lead to a stronger and more vibrant democracy in India.
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