Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a second Instagram reel thanking young people for their feedback following the NEET paper-leak controversy [1].
The outreach comes as the Indian government faces significant pressure from nationwide student protests. By using social media to engage directly with the youth, the administration seeks to mitigate anger and project a collaborative approach to resolving the exam crisis.
In the video, Modi addressed the students as friends and expressed gratitude for their "insightful suggestions" [2]. This second reel was posted within 24 hours of his first video on the subject [1]. The Prime Minister used the platform to reinforce the government's connection with the younger generation during a period of high tension over academic integrity, and fair testing.
Modi said, "Thank you, friends, for your insightful suggestions" [2]. He said the bond between the leadership and the youth will continue to grow [2].
The messages follow a series of protests where students demanded accountability for the leak of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) papers. The controversy has sparked widespread debate across India regarding the security of national examinations, and the impact of leaks on student futures.
While the Prime Minister's videos focus on maintaining a positive relationship with the public, the underlying protests continue to highlight systemic failures in the examination process. The use of a "selfie-style" video format is part of a broader strategy to humanize the leadership and appear accessible to a digitally native demographic [2].
“Our bond will continue to grow…”
This strategic use of short-form video content suggests the Indian government is attempting to bypass traditional media critiques and establish a direct emotional connection with the youth. By framing the interaction as a dialogue between 'friends' rather than a state response to a crisis, the administration aims to pivot the narrative from one of institutional failure to one of mutual growth and listening.
