New Delhi, Aug. 2 -- The recent students' protest in the national capital against alleged irregularities in the NEET (UG) exam saw several content creators and influencers, many of whom resonate strongly with Gen Z audiences, take a public stand.

Industry experts say creators today occupy a very different position from a few years ago. Audiences no longer follow them only for content-they follow them because they feel connected to the individual behind it. That naturally creates an expectation that creators will have opinions on issues that matter.

From a commercial standpoint, however, taking a public position is rarely a straightforward positive or negative. It can deepen loyalty among one section of an audience while alienating anoth...