Modi's Instagram message addressing Generation Z breaks platform record

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set a new Instagram record after posting a 40-second video addressing Generation Z, with the reel amassing 328 million views within 24 hours—the highest view count ever recorded on the platform.

The milestone comes as India continues to witness protests over the alleged NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) question paper leak and examination irregularities.

In the viral video, Modi thanked young people for their overwhelming response to a previous message, saying, "Thank you, friends. I had the opportunity to connect with you last night. Thank you for the positive suggestions and the love you have shown. I hope this bond between us grows even stronger."

The caption accompanying the reel read: "May your love continue, and may the bond between our hearts grow even stronger."

The video was released as thousands of students gathered at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi to protest alleged irregularities in recent competitive examinations. Seeking to directly engage with the country's youth, Modi assured students that his government was treating examination fraud with utmost seriousness.

He said authorities had moved swiftly to organize re-examinations where necessary to prevent students from losing an academic year, while promising strict action against those involved in question paper leaks and other examination-related crimes.

The Indian government has also announced plans to introduce tougher legal provisions against exam fraud and establish fast-track courts to ensure the speedy trial of offenders.

The record-breaking social media response has drawn widespread attention, with political observers and analysts debating whether Modi's direct digital outreach will help ease growing frustration among students over the examination controversy.