New Delhi: With the Delhi elections drawing closer, a new study by The 23 Watts Insights Studio titled “GenZer’s Tryst with Polls” has revealed that young voters in the capital are not only politically aware but also actively engaged in the electoral process. The study highlights the voting behavior, priorities, and influences shaping the decisions of Delhi’s Gen Z voters, aged between 18 and 26.
According to the report, a significant 71% of young voters have either participated in past elections or intend to vote in the upcoming polls. However, some barriers remain—16% do not vote due to a lack of a voting ID, 7.7% choose not to vote despite having one, and 5.1% believe their vote won’t make a difference.
Key Influences on Young Voters
When deciding whom to vote for, party manifesto (66%) emerged as the most influential factor, followed closely by candidate credibility (62%). Surprisingly, peer influence played a minor role (19%), indicating that Delhi’s Gen Z voters prioritize policies and individual reputations over social pressure.
Top Priorities for Gen Z Voters
The study highlights key issues driving young voters’ decisions:
- Women’s safety (85%) tops the list of concerns, underscoring the need for a more secure environment in the capital.
- Unemployment (60%) and pollution (56%) are also major priorities, reflecting Gen Z’s focus on economic opportunities and environmental sustainability.
- 44% of respondents believe Delhi’s law and order situation is poor, adding to concerns over governance and public safety.
Media & Election Campaign Perception
The report also sheds light on how Gen Z consumes election-related information. While 35% rely on social media, 26% turn to independent blogs and websites for news, reflecting a shift away from traditional media. Notably, 53% of respondents believe the media is biased, raising concerns about information credibility. Meanwhile, nearly two-thirds of young voters seem disengaged from political hyperbole, while 37% believe election campaigns are primarily about money spent rather than policy impact.
Commenting on the findings, Tarundeep Singh, Lead at The 23 Watts Insights Studio, said:
“Contrary to popular belief, young voters in Delhi are well-informed, engaged, and eager to make a difference in the upcoming elections. As a digitally native generation, they rely on social media and independent blogs for information, which has significantly enhanced their awareness of candidates and party manifestos. Not only are Gen Z voters informed, but they are also deeply committed to the electoral process. They are prioritizing a safer environment for women, greater job opportunities, and cleaner air, making it clear that their vote is driven by issues that shape their future.”
With Gen Z playing an increasingly active role in shaping electoral outcomes, the study underscores the importance of addressing their concerns and priorities as Delhi gears up for the polls.
