At first glance, the civil unrest in Lutyens’ Delhi is a classic instance of the Youth Bulge effect. Countries with a high youth demographic are vulnerable to political violence, as empirical studies attest. But the recent protests are related to another phenomenon: the use of ‘apolitical’ movements by political actors to disrupt the status quo, destabilise the government, and create an anti-incumbent coalition.

India’s 15-29-year demographic accounts for 27 per cent of the population. Political scientists have argued that a youth bulge above 20 per cent multiplies the potential for civil unrest. First, youth populations are inherently volatile and predisposed to challenge established forms of authority. Second, they have fewer career and financial responsibilities towards their families and are, therefore, easier to mobilise. Third, higher-educated youth aspire to elite economic and social positions and are frustrated when they do not qualify.

“Youth have played a prominent role in political violence throughout recorded history, and the existence of a ‘youth bulge’ […] has historically been associated with times of political crisis,” American sociologist Jack A. Goldstone observed in a 2002 paper. When young people are attuned to entrepreneurship, innovation, sports, and excellence in the field of their choice, and a supportive ecosystem exists, the youth bulge becomes an asset. The reverse occurs when there is no supportive framework and degrees do not yield employment opportunities. This becomes a recipe for political........

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