The recent resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, following widespread student protests, is having a significant impact on India’s political climate. These protests are being regarded as a notable political mobilisation predominantly driven by the Gen Z demographic. In this context, Telangana’s Chief Minister, Revanth Reddy, has publicly lauded the efforts of the younger generation and their contribution to shaping the nation’s political dynamics.

Addressing a rally in Hyderabad, Reddy declared that should Congress come to power and Rahul Gandhi assume the role of Prime Minister, he would ensure that a leader from the Gen Z cohort is appointed as the Education Minister. Reddy’s remarks underline the increasing recognition of the role that young individuals play in the electoral process and governance.

Advocacy for Lowering Election Age for Young Leaders

Reddy has expressed a strong belief that the age criteria for contesting Lok Sabha and state assembly elections should be reduced. He posed an argument highlighting that if individuals as young as twenty-one can ascend to roles such as IAS officers and represent local bodies, then they should also have the right to contest for legislative positions. His statements have been met with enthusiastic support from the audience, as he championed the cause of greater youth involvement in politics.

To bolster his argument, Reddy referenced historical amendments that have expanded voting rights, including former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s 61st Constitutional Amendment which lowered the voting age from twenty-one to eighteen, and amendments enabling younger candidates to stand for local elections. Additionally, he drew comparisons to international practices in nations like Germany and the United Kingdom, where younger individuals have the opportunity to participate in elections at earlier ages.

He announced plans for the Telangana government to convene a special session of the Assembly and Legislative Council in early August to advocate for a constitutional amendment aimed at modifying the age requirement for contesting elections. Reddy stated that key Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, would pursue this initiative at the parliamentary level.

Highlighting Gender Z Representation in Parliament

Reddy pointed out a significant representation disparity in Parliament, where Gen Z, which constitutes approximately 30 per cent of India’s population, currently occupies a mere 1 per cent of parliamentary seats. He articulated a vision for the country that acknowledges the vital role of its youth in shaping the future of India and stressed that legislative bodies should accurately reflect the demographics of the nation.

Addressing the recent movement linked to the alleged NEET paper leakage, Reddy commended the youth for causing the resignation of the Union Education Minister and advocated for justice for the protesting students. He called on the government to retract legal cases against the demonstrators and provide compensation to the families of students who have reportedly taken their lives amidst the turmoil surrounding the issue.

In concluding his address, Reddy framed the student protests as a broader triumph for youth across India, transcending political affiliation. He encouraged young people to persist in their pursuit of justice and enhanced representation, emphasising the need for their voices to resonate not only in local spheres but also in the parliamentary arena. He remarked, “This tsunami of youth must not stop here. The voice of Gen Z should be heard from Jantar Mantar to Parliament.”

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