Bollywood Stars Join Students in Protests Against NEET Paper Leak

Protests Erupt at Jantar Mantar and Mumbai

In the past two days, Jantar Mantar in Delhi has witnessed violent confrontations amidst peaceful demonstrations led by students. The unrest follows the leak of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) papers, prompting youth protests alongside the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and activist Sonam Wangchuk. Concurrently, a similar protest took place in Mumbai, heavily monitored by police. Actors Pratibha Ranta and Gurfateh Pirzada participated in the demonstration at Shivaji Park in Dadar, sharing their experiences on social media.

Pratibha Ranta and Gurfateh Pirzada at Mumbai Protest

Both Gurfateh and Pratibha, prominent figures in the Hindi film industry, were seen at the protest in Mumbai. Pratibha expressed her thoughts on Instagram, stating, 'First protest! Was I scared? Absolutely! People advised me against attending (out of concern)... despite some backlash on social media and losing 50 followers, I’m grateful I participated. Those who think it’s wise to stay uninvolved are mistaken; that mindset has led us to this situation. The atmosphere was electric, and the youth are definitely pushing for change. GEN Z may be labeled as lazy, but they are courageous!'

Pratibha also shared an Instagram Story urging, 'If not now, then when? Break the silence. Step out. Speak up.'

On July 20, Gurfateh posted on Instagram, 'Wake up, nation, wake up. Revolution is here again.'

CJP Protests

During the Mumbai protests, authorities have prohibited gatherings of five or more individuals, as well as processions, loudspeakers, and fireworks from July 23 to August 6 due to concerns over potential disturbances. While the CJP's protests persist in Mumbai, the Chalo Sansad march towards Parliament in Delhi escalated into violence, resulting in injuries to over 118 police officers and around 60 protesters. Law enforcement has filed five FIRs related to the violence, stone-throwing, and vandalism, and is reviewing more than 250 videos to identify those responsible. Sonam Wangchuk has been directed by the Delhi High Court to follow medical advice and treatment protocols from Medanta Hospital, leading to his transfer from Safdarjung Hospital after significant weight loss during his hunger strike that began on June 28.