Salman Khan backs Delhi student protests, says ‘Paper leak is a very serious issue’ | Today’s news
Bollywood actor Salman Khan expressed support for students protesting against the NEET paper leak and examination irregularities, while lamenting the violence that marred what he described as a peaceful movement.
Sharing a throwback photo on Instagram, the actor said he was saddened that the protests had turned violent and also extended his sympathies to those who were injured during the demonstrations.
“It was such a peaceful movement, I feel so sad that it had to take a violent turn. My heart goes out to the students and their families who were injured. The paper leak is a very serious issue,” Salman Khan wrote.
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Salman Khan supports student protests over fears of NEET paper leak and examination irregularities, which he describes as serious issues affecting the education system.
Students are protesting against alleged irregularities in national-level examinations, especially the NEET paper leak, and are demanding accountability and reforms in the examination system.
Salman Khan characterized the protests as a courageous and peaceful movement that reflects students’ commitment to education and a better education system.
The AIU called on universities to advise students to focus on academics rather than engaging in prolonged protests, highlighting concerns that such demonstrations could harm students’ education.
The Delhi Police used tear gas and batons to disperse the protests, leading to violence and injuries among students and law enforcement agencies during the demonstrations.
The actor praised the students for coming together to demand reforms in the country’s education system and appreciated the support they received from their parents.
“I am glad to know that the children of our country have come together for a better education system and their parents have supported them.”
Calling the protests an example of courage and commitment to education, Salman Khan said the movement reflected the aspirations of a generation determined to build a stronger India.
“I really appreciate the stand they have taken, they show determination, sincerity and zeal to study hard and make their future a greater and more educated India. This andolan, this protest, is the right way to face it, the students have done it peacefully. So brave and brave. Driven and motivated for education, this generation will make India proud.”
The actor also appealed for the issue to remain focused on students’ concerns rather than becoming a political fight.
“This issue is between the students and the education system, it should not be hijacked politically, the credit should only go to the students of our country.”
Salman expressed confidence that the government would address the issue and said he hoped the outcome would strengthen India’s education system.
“I’m sure the government will also give them all the support to make it a stronger education system. It’s a win-win situation. I hope we will pray for a positive decision. God bless all of you who want to get an education.”
Concluding his message, Salman envisioned education becoming India’s defining global identity.
“Education should be the next trend and fashion and it should be trendier and more fashionable year by year, so come study in India and India will become an education hub.”
Protests and police action in Delhi
The actor’s remarks come days after the Delhi Police used tear gas and batons to disperse thousands of students who were attempting to march to Parliament calling for ‘Chalo Sansad’. The protesters demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over irregularities in the NEET examination system and the paper leak controversy.
The demonstrations marked one of the largest public protests in the capital in recent years. As tensions escalated, some protesters reportedly threw stones after police blocked their march, leaving dozens injured on both sides. Opposition parties accused the government of suppressing peaceful dissent.
Read also | CJP protests: ‘Don’t waste time,’ says CJI on plea against police action
Opposition protests and judicial intervention
The matter also sparked a political showdown. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav were among more than 100 opposition lawmakers detained after they staged a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence and demanded accountability for the police action.
Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court ordered the police to preserve CCTV footage and other electronic evidence from the protest site while hearing petitions alleging excessive use of force against the protesters. The next hearing is scheduled for September 11.
Wider support for the student movement
Salman Khan joins the growing list of public figures supporting the student movement. Actors Shabana Azmi and Prakash Raj participated in the protest marches, while filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, actors Zeenat Aman, Kiran Rao, Bhumi Pednekar, Huma Qureshi and singer Diljit Dosanjh also expressed solidarity with the students through social media.
The protests have now moved to Jantar Mantar, where protesters are continuing their sit-in, while activist Sonam Wangchuk has extended her hunger strike indefinitely, demanding assurances that no punitive legal action will be taken against the student protesters.
Read also | Yuvraj Singh, Sahal Abdul Samad back at CJP protesters, call for dialogue
