4. Gen Z and the Dynamics of Democratic Engagement: A Shift in Political Subjectivity

The emergence of Generation Z (born 1997–2012) as a political force marks a transition from traditional, ideology-driven movements to episodic, digitally-mediated protests. In countries like Bangladesh and Nepal, this generation has demonstrated that despite being labeled as \'politically disengaged,\' their unique blend of radical individualism and digital fluency can challenge authoritarian structures more effectively than previous mass mobilizations.• From Emissaries to Exemplars: Unlike previous generations that acted as \'emissaries\' of specific ideologies (Socialism, Liberalism), Gen Z operates as \'exemplars.\' Their politics is rooted in personal conduct and lived experience rather than abstract propositions or long-term party affiliations. • Episodic vs. Organized Movements: Gen Z favors \'flash-in-the-pan\' mobilizations that are leaderless and spontaneous. While the Farmers\' Movement (2020-24) relied on sustained leadership and formal organization, Gen Z protests (e.g., Bangladesh 2024) are fleeting but high-impact, often fizzling out once immediate accountability is sought. • The \'Personal is Political\' Paradox: For Gen Z, the personal is political, but the political is not personal. They respond readily to immediate hierarchies and injustices affecting their dignity but often lack a structural or historical understanding of those same power dynamics. • Digital Subjectivity and Mental Health: This is the first generation to prioritize mental health and \'self-introspection\' over toxic masculinity or stoicism. Their political engagement is often a reflection of their \'mental despair\' caused by a lack of economic opportunities despite social democratization. • Consumption as an Equalizer: For Gen Z, access to technology and global fashion acts as a secularizing force. Ownership of global commodities is often seen as a greater source of dignity than traditional ascriptive identities like caste or religion, though this same digital access can sometimes fuel hyper-nationalism. • Impact on Democratic Backsliding: In an era of unresponsive governance, Gen Z serves as a \'renewed source of hope.\' Their ability to mobilize via virtual platforms creates a new substratum of democracy based on shifting moral practices and collective emotions rather than just institutional frameworks. Constitutional and Legal Context • Article 19(1)(a) & (b): The fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression, and to assemble peaceably without arms. Gen Z utilizes digital spaces to exercise these rights, often bypassing traditional media censorship. • Right to Privacy (Article 21): Established in the Puttaswamy judgment, this is central to Gen Z\'s political subjectivity, as much of their \'rebellion\' and \'self-making\' occurs in private, digital spheres. • IT Act, 2000 & Digital India: While the state uses these for governance, Gen Z uses the digital infrastructure for \'leaderless\' mobilization, creating a legal tension between state regulation and digital freedom of expression. • Universal Adult Franchise (Article 326): As Gen Z enters the electoral roll in massive numbers, their \'non-ideological\' and \'market-integrated\' worldview is expected to disrupt traditional vote-bank politics based on caste and creed. Key Definitions • Political Subjectivity: The internal world of an individual—their emotions, thoughts, and selfconception—that determines how they engage with power and authority• Ascriptive Identity: Social identity assigned at birth, such as caste, religion, or ethnicity, which Gen Z increasingly challenges through global consumption and digital presence. • Hyper-nationalism: A form of nationalism characterized by extreme assertiveness and a focus on projecting ambitious future claims (e.g., space missions) rather than historical chauvinism. • Prosumer/Market Imaginaries: The idea that a generation defines its identity and social standing through what it consumes and how it represents itself in the global market. Conclusion Gen Z represents a \'recipe\' where the ingredients of the old world have melted into a new, often unpredictable form. While their protests may seem fragmented and their involvement fleeting, their insistence on transparency, dignity, and mental well-being challenges the \'malaise\' of democratic backsliding. They may not follow the traditional scripts of revolution, but their ability to disrupt the status quo through a mix of confidence and anxiety makes them the most significant variable in modern democratic survival. UPSC Relevance • GS Paper II (Governance & Polity): Role of civil society and pressure groups; the changing nature of public protests; impact of digital technology on democratic participation. • GS Paper I (Social Issues): Impact of globalization on youth; transformation of traditional identities (caste/religion); and the generational shift in Indian society. • GS Paper IV (Ethics): The recalibration of ethics and values in a digital age; the role of \'individualism\' versus \'collective struggle\' in a just society.