Kamal Haasan Advocates for Student Rights Amid Protests Against NEET Issues

Kamal Haasan's Support for Student Protests

Renowned actor and politician Kamal Haasan has voiced his support for students in Delhi NCR who are protesting against the NEET paper leak and the tragic suicides of several young individuals. He emphasized the urgent need for reforms in the education sector and urged authorities to heed the voices of the youth rather than stifling their concerns. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the leader of Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) expressed his dismay over the escalating frustration among students, noting that their issues have been overlooked for too long. He stated, "We should have listened when one child cried. Instead, we waited until far too many of our children died," indicating that the systemic problems in education have reached a critical point.

Haasan further criticized the education system, describing it as fundamentally flawed, where the focus on coaching and competitive pressures has overshadowed genuine learning. He remarked, "A system where coaching replaces learning, anxiety replaces curiosity, and criminality replaces merit is rotten."

Additionally, Haasan condemned the reported use of force against the protesting students, asserting that a nation fails its youth when their concerns are met with violence rather than dialogue. He stated, "A nation has failed when its children are met with barricades and batons instead of answers." The iconic actor expressed solidarity with students who are demanding accountability and addressing alleged irregularities.

In the same message, Haasan reached out to climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on a hunger strike, urging him to conclude his fast while recognizing his moral leadership. He wrote, "@Wangchuk66, the nation will need your conscience for the journey ahead. Please end your fast."

Haasan concluded his message with encouragement for students across India, affirming that their voices are significant and emphasizing the responsibility of society and the government to respond to their needs. He stated, "To the children of India: You are the best of us. You have done your duty. It is now time for the country to do its duty by you. May your dreams forever be bigger than our failures."

Haasan's comments resonate with a growing number of public figures who are expressing concern over the treatment of student protesters and the necessity for substantial reforms in the education system. Other celebrities, including R Madhavan, have also shared their thoughts, highlighting the disappointment felt by students and parents alike. Madhavan noted, "An education system must inspire confidence, fairness, and opportunity." Earlier, Tovino Thomas condemned the alleged violence against peaceful protesters, emphasizing that the right to dissent is a cornerstone of democracy. Numerous other public figures, such as Sonu Sood, Dia Mirza, Aditi Rao Hydari, Vijay Varma, Prakash Raj, Riteish Deshmukh, Shabana Azmi, and Naseeruddin Shah, have also shown their support for the students.