The recent protests at Jantar Mantar, led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), have sparked a wave of support from the Indian film industry. The protests, which have been ongoing for over a month, are a response to the alleged NEET-UG paper leak and other irregularities in the examination process. The situation has been particularly distressing, with students facing police action and violence, which has prompted a range of reactions from Bollywood celebrities.
One of the most powerful statements came from actor Dulquer Salmaan, who described the events at Jantar Mantar as "gut-wrenching." He wrote, "What’s happening at Jantar Mantar is a reminder to pause, listen, and choose understanding. Education has always been about hope, opportunity, and the promise of a better future. Seeing young people face uncertainty is gut-wrenching." Salmaan's words resonate with many, as they highlight the emotional impact of the protests on both the students and their families.
Actor Aditi Rao Hydari also weighed in, emphasizing the human cost of the violence. She wrote, "I’m a human being first. I speak not as an actor, but as a living, thinking, feeling responsible citizen of my country. I’m deeply distressed by the violence and the apathy surrounding it." Hydari's statement is a powerful reminder that the protests are not just about politics, but about the fundamental values of humanity and compassion.
Veteran actor Raghubir Yadav was equally moved, sharing an emotional video message on Instagram. He said, "I am deeply hurt. I still cannot believe what has happened. The way these innocent children were brutally and mercilessly beaten… I don’t know what to say." Yadav's words reflect the widespread outrage at the police action, which has been widely condemned as excessive and unjustified.
Singer Anuv Jain also expressed his support, sharing snapshots from the solidarity protest held in Mumbai. He wrote, "Because of all the shows and the music I get to meet and interact with so many students. I get to hear their stories and I know how difficult things can get! I’ll always be in their corner no matter what!" Jain's statement is a testament to the power of art and culture in mobilizing support for social causes.
Filmmaker and actor Pradeep Ranganathan also weighed in, posting a brief but pointed message on X condemning the police action against the students. He wrote, "Don’t answer questions with lathis." Ranganathan's statement is a call to action, urging authorities to engage in meaningful dialogue and avoid the use of force.
Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah also extended his support to the student protesters. When asked why more Bollywood celebrities were not speaking up, Shah replied, "They’ll do it when their conscience tells them to. There’s a saying: a dog with a bone in its mouth can’t bark. As soon as the bone drops out of their mouth, or it breaks their teeth, then they will bark." Shah's words are a reminder that even the most powerful voices can be silenced, but they will always find a way to be heard when the time is right.
The protests at Jantar Mantar have raised important questions about the role of the government in ensuring a fair and transparent examination process. The demands for a dialogue with the Central government and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan are not just about political change, but about restoring faith in the system and ensuring that students have a voice in shaping their future.
In my opinion, the support from the Indian film industry is a powerful sign of the growing awareness and concern for social justice in the country. It is a reminder that art and culture can be a force for positive change, and that the voices of those who are often marginalized can be amplified through the power of storytelling and expression. As the protests continue, it is crucial that the government engages in meaningful dialogue and addresses the concerns of the students in a timely and effective manner.
