Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has once again sharpened his attack on the government, calling unemployment the single biggest issue facing India’s youth and directly linking it to what he described as “vote chori” (vote theft). His remarks came during a public address, where he claimed that millions of young Indians feel betrayed by the government’s failure to create jobs, while democratic institutions are weakened by electoral manipulation.
Youth in Crisis
India’s demographic advantage, with over 65% of its population under 35, is often described as its greatest strength. Yet, for many young people, the promise of opportunity has not materialized. Gandhi pointed out that educated youth are struggling to secure jobs suited to their skills, while many are forced into insecure gig work or migration to other states in search of livelihood.
He argued that unemployment is not simply a statistic but a lived reality that causes social distress, weakens families, and leads to frustration among the young generation.
Linking Jobs to Democracy
In a sharp political twist, Gandhi asserted that unemployment is inseparably linked to “vote chori.” According to him, when elections are not truly free and fair, leaders in power are not accountable to citizens’ needs, and job creation becomes secondary. “When your vote is stolen, your job is stolen too,” he told the crowd.
He alleged that institutions that should safeguard democracy—such as the Election Commission and investigative agencies—are being used to suppress opposition voices rather than to ensure fairness.
Criticism of Government Programs
Rahul Gandhi accused the government of betraying promises of employment. He reminded the audience that the ruling party had pledged two crore new jobs each year, but the reality has been starkly different. He criticized Make in India and Skill India, saying these campaigns were more slogans than solutions.
He also blamed demonetisation, the rollout of GST, and the handling of COVID-19 for devastating small businesses, which traditionally provide the bulk of employment in India.
Farmer and Worker Concerns
Apart from educated youth, Gandhi highlighted the distress of rural labourers and farmers. He said that unemployment is visible in the struggles of daily wage earners, farm workers, and those dependent on government programs like MNREGA.
Farmer groups have backed this line of criticism, pointing out that poor procurement policies and lack of rural investment are forcing young people to leave villages, only to face further disappointment in cities.
Opposition’s Political Strategy
The Congress and other opposition parties are positioning unemployment as a key campaign issue. Gandhi’s rhetoric seeks to unite disillusioned young voters by framing their personal struggles as part of a larger democratic and economic failure. His term “vote chori” has added a sharper edge to this attack, suggesting that political manipulation directly undermines youth futures.
Government’s Counterclaims
Government ministers have rejected Gandhi’s charges, pointing to official data showing job creation through EPFO enrollments, PLI schemes, and infrastructure projects. They argue that India remains one of the fastest-growing major economies, offering opportunities in manufacturing, digital services, and startups.
They also accuse Gandhi of “demoralizing” the youth by painting an overly bleak picture, while insisting that global disruptions such as the pandemic and geopolitical tensions have impacted jobs worldwide.
Economic and Social Reality
Independent observers note that while India’s GDP growth remains strong, employment elasticity—how much growth translates into jobs—has been weak. Joblessness among graduates remains in double digits, with many settling for roles far below their qualifications.
Social scientists warn that prolonged unemployment among youth could lead to greater political unrest, migration pressures, and even rising crime rates. Gandhi’s remarks appear to tap into these growing anxieties.
The Road Ahead
The debate over jobs is expected to remain at the heart of political campaigns. While the government highlights macroeconomic growth and welfare schemes, Gandhi is attempting to frame unemployment as a crisis of both governance and democracy.
