Prime Minister Narendra Modi has crossed 105 million followers on Instagram, gaining nearly three million followers within days after his recent Gen Z-style reels on the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy went viral.

The surge in followers comes as the Prime Minister adopted a more informal social media style while addressing concerns raised by students protesting over the examination controversy.

Gen Z-style reel draws millions of viewers

Last Thursday, Modi shared a late-night selfie video, filmed using the front camera in the style of a typical Instagram reel rather than the polished format usually associated with official government communications.

Speaking in Hindi, the Prime Minister acknowledged that the alleged NEET-UG paper leak had caused distress to lakhs of students and their families. He said the issue was serious and highlighted the steps taken over the previous two-and-a-half months, including the arrest of those allegedly responsible.

Modi also stressed the need to conduct examinations at the earliest to ensure students did not lose an academic year.

Second reel announces exam reform task force

The Prime Minister followed up with another Instagram reel on Sunday announcing the formation of a high-powered task force on examination reforms, headed by technology entrepreneur Nandan Nilekani.

The panel has been tasked with recommending measures to strengthen examination systems and restore public confidence following the controversy.

Social media engagement rises amid protests

The Instagram surge comes against the backdrop of nationwide student protests over the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak.

While Modi’s videos received widespread engagement online, protests continued in New Delhi until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned, fulfilling one of the key demands raised by the student-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).

The CJP itself has witnessed a sharp rise in its social media presence, reportedly attracting around 22 million Instagram followers within a short period.

With over 105 million followers, Narendra Modi remains among the world’s most-followed political leaders across Instagram, X and Facebook.