Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has lent his voice in support of the ongoing student-led demonstrations against the alleged NEET-UG paper leak, calling on authorities to listen to the demands of young aspirants and ensure systemic reforms in India’s education sector.
Salman is currently the largest celebrity voice to publicly address the unrest surrounding the examinations.
“Heart Goes Out to Students”: Salman’s Statement
Taking to social media late Wednesday night, the actor expressed sorrow over the recent escalation of police action against peaceful demonstrators during their Chalo Sansad march:
“It was such a peaceful movement, feel so sad that it had to take a violent turn. My heart goes out to the students and their families who were hurt. Paper leak is a very serious issue, and I am glad to know and see that the kids of our country have come together for a better educational system, and their parents supported them.”
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Salman commended the determination and courage shown by the student community, describing their agitation as a righteous effort toward building a stronger nation:
- Sincerity and Drive: “This andolan, this protest, is the right way to go about it, and the students have done this peacefully. So courageous and brave. Driven and motivated towards education, this generation will make India proud.”
- A Vision for Education: “Education should be the next trend and fashion, and should get trendier and more fashionable year by year, so much so that people from outside come to India to study and India becomes an educational hub.”
He also cautioned against external political exploitation, emphasizing that “the issue is between the students and the educational system, it should not be hijacked politically.”
Growing Film Industry Solidarity
Salman Khan’s statement follows widespread condemnation from several prominent figures across Indian cinema regarding the police force used against student demonstrators.
| Celebrity Voices Supporting the Agitation |
| Hrithik Roshan |
| Diljit Dosanjh |
| Naseeruddin Shah & Ratna Pathak Shah |
| Shabana Azmi |
| Sonakshi Sinha |
| Prakash Raj |
| Tovino Thomas |
| Atul Kulkarni |
Background of the Agitation
The protests, centered around Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, were sparked by repeated allegations of paper leaks and irregularities in nationwide competitive exams like the NEET-UG.
Key developments surrounding the protest include:
- Student Demands: Demonstrators are calling for comprehensive exam safety reforms, accountability regarding paper leak networks, and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
- Sonam Wangchuk’s Involvement: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk joined the agitation, embarking on a hunger strike at the protest venue before being removed by authorities.
- Escalation: Tensions spiked during a Chalo Sansad (March to Parliament) rally when police moved in to disperse crowds, resulting in scuffles and injuries among student participants.
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