PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
A group of Gen Z youth in Dehradun has launched the Uttarakhand Jan Samarthan Party (UJSP), describing it as a youth-driven “political startup” aimed at converting public frustration over unemployment and governance issues into organised political participation. The initiative draws inspiration from the Cockroach Janta Party narrative that emerged after remarks attributed to chief justice of India Surya Kant. Initially active on social media, the movement has since expanded to on-ground mobilisation in the State.
UJSP State president, co-founder and spokesman Harendra Kaneri said that the organisation is built around six pillars under its vision of Viksit Uttarakhand- education and examination reforms, healthcare, agriculture, export-oriented industries, tourism, employment and law and order. A key focus is addressing paper leaks, recruitment irregularities and other systemic issues affecting students and job seekers. “Politics impacts everyone’s life. Our aim is to build awareness and encourage people to participate in shaping Uttarakhand’s future,” he said.
The outfit has also demanded the filling of vacant government posts, promotion of tourism and agro-based livelihoods and AI and technology-based skill training for youth. Kaneri said, “Our organisation is registered with the Election Commission of India and operates through crowd-funding rather than corporate sponsorship”. During a recent protest, participant Shweta Sharma asked fellow demonstrators whether such movements would lead to real change, what single issue brought them to protest, whether they would support such a party beyond social media and whether their parents were aware of their participation.
UJSP recently held a protest at Gandhi Park over paper leaks and recruitment issues and plans to expand its grassroots outreach before considering electoral politics.
