Rahul Gandhi: 'PM Modi is India's past, protesting youth are the future'

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi represents the past, while the youth protesting across the country are India's future. Addressing a gathering in New Delhi, Gandhi criticised the Modi government's handling of unemployment and the Agnipath military recruitment scheme, which has sparked widespread protests among young job seekers.

Gandhi claimed that the current administration has failed to address the aspirations of the youth, leading to frustration and unrest. 'The old guard is clinging to power, but the energy and determination of our young people will shape tomorrow's India,' he said.

The remarks come amid ongoing demonstrations by youth demanding job guarantees and the rollback of the Agnipath scheme, which they argue reduces long-term employment opportunities in the armed forces. The government has defended the scheme as a reform to modernise the military, but critics say it undermines job security.

Political analysts note that Gandhi's statement is part of a broader opposition narrative aimed at discrediting the Modi government ahead of the general elections. The Congress party has consistently highlighted youth unemployment as a key campaign issue.

Responding to Gandhi's comments, Union Minister Smriti Irani accused the opposition of inciting unrest and questioned the Congress party's track record on job creation. 'The youth know that it is under Prime Minister Modi that India's global standing has risen and opportunities have expanded,' Irani said.

The exchange underscores the deepening political divide over economic policies and their impact on the younger generation. As protests continue, both the ruling coalition and the opposition are vying to position themselves as champions of the youth.