Prayagraj, August 8: Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday criticised the Centre over unemployment, claiming that only 12 out of every 1,000 young people secure permanent jobs.

Addressing students at the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ event in Prayagraj, Gandhi said India’s youth are the country’s biggest strength but alleged that employment opportunities are shrinking.

He criticised the impact of social media and gig-economy jobs, alleging that young people are increasingly pushed towards platforms such as Instagram, WhatsApp, Blinkit and Uber while their data is used by large corporations.

Gandhi also alleged that demonetisation and GST weakened the manufacturing sector, affecting small businesses and jobs. He criticised the government’s Startup India initiative, claiming that young entrepreneurs and small businesses face difficulties in accessing bank loans.

On government recruitment, Gandhi raised concerns over paper leaks and limited vacancies, saying only one in 150 candidates succeeds in securing a government job.

He further warned that artificial intelligence could threaten corporate jobs in sectors such as IT, software and back-office services.

Calling on students to fight for their rights peacefully, Gandhi urged young people to reject hatred and violence and continue their struggle for employment and equality.