Several Bollywood stars have finally begun to speak out on the students’ continuing movement. The controversy over the NEET exam and the protests that began demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan have gradually grown large. Although the stars’ long silence had drawn criticism, after the recent situation a few actors have stood beside the students.
According to media reports, Salman Khan spoke about the students’ crisis on Wednesday night. Soon after, actress Alia Bhatt expressed support for the protesters on social media. After her statement became public, fresh discussion has begun on the matter.
The movement at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, going on for 26 days in a row, flared up on July 20. A situation of clashes with police developed over the students’ march towards parliament. Police were accused of using batons as well as tear gas and water cannon to disperse the protesters. Since then, criticism of the police’s role has begun across the country.
In this situation, expressing her feelings about the students, Alia Bhatt said the recent events had pained her deeply. But at the same time the students’ firm stand had also made her hopeful.
In the actress’s words, this students’ movement is not centred only on the demand of one exam or a personal problem. Bound up with it are their future, their families’ dreams and their long, hard work. In her view, the protesters are raising questions not only about their own rights but about the future of a whole generation.
Praising the students’ courage and firmness, Alia further said their unwavering stand had raised some important questions before society. She also asked whether those who are supposed to build the country’s future are being listened to with enough seriousness.
Finally, expressing solidarity with the students, the actress said the future is theirs. Her statement spread quickly on social media. Many see Alia Bhatt’s open support for the protesters as a source of inspiration for them.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report