India, France protests share economic anger as ‘social contract’ frays

Youth-led protests in New Delhi and other Indian cities have sparked allegations of links to unrest in France and elsewhere in Europe. An influential Hindu nationalist organisation warned that foreign forces are seeking to destabilise societies. Analysts caution against concluding that foreign interference played a role in the Indian demonstrations. However, they say protesters in Europe and India share similar concerns. Young people in both regions are increasingly angry that education and hard work no longer guarantee a secure future. This frustration, analysts say, reflects a growing sense that the "social contract" — the unwritten deal between citizens and the state — is breaking down.