Gen Z is the first constituency defined by mindset, not identity, says political strategist Naresh Arora
Political strategist Naresh Arora argues that Gen Z in India represents a new political constituency defined by shared mindsets and issue-based loyalty rather than traditional identity markers like caste or religion. He suggests that this generation views institutional failures as moral crises and expects digital-age responsiveness from political organizations.
Why it matters
Understanding the shifting political behavior of Gen Z is critical for future election strategies and governance in the world's largest democracy.
The generation that came out in large numbers during the recent protests at Jantar Mantar can be viewed as India’s first political constituency defined by a common mindset rather than caste, religion or ideology, political strategist Naresh Arora said on Sunday (August 2, 2026).
Speaking at a webinar hosted by The Hindu on whether Gen Z is the new driving force in politics, Mr. Arora, who has worked on the Congress party’s election campaigns and advised the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) led by the late Ajit Pawar, said young voters consume information differently and are less loyal to political parties than they are to issues.
“Gen Z is the first generation that should be treated as a constituency based on mindset rather than identity,” Mr. Arora said, adding, “They can support you on one issue today and oppose you tomorrow without feeling contradictory.”
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