Union Minister Criticizes Naseeruddin Shah's Comments on Education

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has sharply criticized actor Naseeruddin Shah, calling him a 'dangerous urban dimagi naxal' after Shah's comments on the education system. Rijiju expressed disappointment over Shah's views, which he believes threaten Indian democracy. This exchange follows Shah's vocal support for Jamia Millia Islamia students advocating for their student union. The term 'dimagi naxal' was introduced by Prime Minister Modi, referring to individuals perceived as undermining societal values. Shah, at 76, continues to engage in various student-related issues, recently supporting protests against NEET exam irregularities and advocating for students at the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute. This ongoing dialogue highlights the tensions between government officials and prominent figures in the arts regarding educational policies.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 29, 2026, 11:54 IST

Kiren Rijiju's Strong Response to Naseeruddin Shah

Union minister Kiren Rijiju (left) and actor Naseeruddin Shah. (Photo)

New Delhi, Oct 29: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has labeled actor Naseeruddin Shah as a "dangerous urban dimagi naxal" whose opinions pose a significant threat to Indian democracy.

In a recent social media update, the Minister for Minority Affairs expressed that he once held Shah in high regard but later discovered his "true character."

"I initially thought Naseeruddin Shah was merely an ordinary actor whom I respected and admired. However, I eventually learned that he is a dangerous urban Dimagi Naxal. His views are extremely detrimental to the democracy of India," Rijiju stated.

These comments followed Shah's video in which he criticized the government for allegedly undermining the education system.

In a passionate video shared on Facebook, Shah expressed his support for the students of Jamia Millia Islamia, who have been advocating for the revival of their student union, and referred to himself as a "dimagi naxal."

He accused the BJP-led central government of attempting to dismantle the education system and weaken the resolve of the nation's youth. Shah was also seen wearing a pin that read "dimagi naxal" during the video.

The term 'dimagi naxal' was popularized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Independence Day speech, where he described such individuals as those embedded within the system, posing a societal threat through policy manipulation.

At 76, Shah has been actively sharing videos advocating for student rights and has criticized the government's response to protests related to NEET exam irregularities that occurred in July.

Recently, he also expressed solidarity with students from the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute, who are engaged in an indefinite sit-in protest following violent incidents on their campus.