How PM Modi Engaged Gen-Z Amid NEET Protests with Viral Trends

In a bid to connect with the youth during the NEET protests, PM Modi has embraced social media trends, utilizing Instagram reels and Gen-Z language in Parliament. This innovative approach has transformed serious discussions into relatable content for young audiences, with MPs incorporating viral slang and gestures to resonate with students. The NDA's strategy aims to address the concerns of millions preparing for competitive exams while facing criticism from the opposition, who argue that tangible solutions to pressing issues are needed. Discover how this shift in communication is shaping political discourse in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 29, 2026, 19:04 IST

Transforming Parliamentary Discourse

Whether it's Prime Minister Modi's Instagram reels or the iconic theme from the show F.R.I.E.N.D.S., the recent viral micro-clapping by Bansuri Swaraj, along with Shrikant Shinde's 'FOMO' and Tejasvi Surya's sharp remarks, have completely altered the atmosphere in Parliament. The NDA government, amidst the uproar over NEET controversies and paper leaks, has embraced a fresh approach, infusing the language of Gen-Z into parliamentary discussions. This shift has led to serious debates becoming viral clips on social media platforms, resonating with the youth across the nation.

PM Modi's Instagram Engagement

In response to widespread protests regarding the NEET-UG exam paper leak, PM Modi directly addressed students through a series of viral, selfie-style Instagram videos. The BJP aimed to alleviate students' concerns with a post that reflected a Gen-Z vibe. One reel featuring the PM was synchronized with the famous F.R.I.E.N.D.S. theme song, 'I'll Be There for You.' A post on social media stated, 'F.R.I.E.N.D.S… PM Modi is with you!' It emphasized that the government is taking significant steps to ensure transparency and safeguard students' futures, asserting that the dreams and hard work of India's youth are the top priority.

Gen-Z Language in Parliament

During discussions, MP Bansuri Swaraj praised PM Modi's understanding of the situation in a Gen-Z style, stating that he 'clocked it,' a term used by the younger generation to express approval. She highlighted that Modi's legal solutions were well understood, aligning with Gen-Z's language.

Understanding Micro-Clapping

Micro-clapping is a rapid and subtle way of applauding, where fingertips or the upper parts of palms come together with minimal movement. This trend has transitioned from corporate culture to a viral meme among Gen-Z. The gesture involves hands staying close together, creating a quick, silent clapping motion. It serves to emphasize a point or add significance without words, often used to show agreement or to punctuate a strong statement.

Shrikant Shinde's Use of Gen-Z Slang

During the Lok Sabha debate on the anti-paper leak bill, Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde utilized Gen-Z slang to mock the opposition, stating that they were 'Missing In Action' (MIA) during initial student protests. He claimed that the opposition was absent for 37 days and failed to engage with the students, suggesting that their actions were driven by 'FOMO'—fear of missing out.

Tejasvi Surya's Strong Statements

Tejasvi Surya asserted that the youth of the country stand firmly with PM Modi, emphasizing that their actions were justified. He stated that the government is fully prepared for reforms and criticized the opposition for attempting to gain political mileage from student protests, insisting that students seek concrete solutions rather than political slogans.

Why the NDA Adopted This Language

The ongoing debate directly impacts millions of young candidates preparing for competitive exams. Engaging in the common language of Gen-Z was a strategic move to make complex parliamentary discussions more relatable and relevant to teenagers scrolling through social media. The deliberate use of terms like 'delulu' and gestures like 'micro-clap' aimed to ensure that these discussions could quickly go viral on platforms like Instagram and YouTube. The NDA successfully transformed a serious parliamentary session into youth-centric clips that resonate with the younger audience.

Opposition's Response

The Congress party sharply criticized this strategy. MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra responded, stating that if PM Modi genuinely wants to connect with Generation Z, mere camera-angle-changing videos won't suffice. She emphasized that young people are looking for tangible solutions to issues like unemployment and exam fraud, rather than trends on the internet. NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule also challenged the ruling parties, questioning the use of casual language in the house and warning the government not to misinterpret the trust of the youth.