Naseeruddin Shah Condemns Action Against Student Protesters, Says ‘Mein Gusse mein Khol Raha hun’
Naseeruddin Shah on Jantar Mantar Protest: Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has spoken out against the reported use of force on students during a protest in Delhi's Jantar Mantar. In a video shared on social media, the actor expressed deep concern over the incident, saying he was "boiling with anger" after watching visuals of the confrontation. His remarks have added to the growing public reaction from several members of the film industry.
Naseeruddin Shah reacts to violence during student protest
The demonstration at Jantar Mantar was organized by student groups demanding action over the alleged NEET paper leak issue. On July 20, hundreds of protesters marched toward Parliament, where clashes reportedly broke out between demonstrators and the police. Reports and videos from the protest showed students being stopped during the march, drawing criticism from several public figures.
Following the incident, actors including Bhumi Pednekar, Prakash Raj, Anurag Kashyap, Huma Qureshi, and now Naseeruddin Shah voiced concern over the treatment of the protesters through social media posts and public statements.
“I am boiling with anger,” says the veteran actor
In a video message posted on social media, the 76-year-old actor shared his emotional reaction after watching footage of the incident.
बच्चों से मुझे कहना है कि मैं तुम्हें हज़ार-हज़ार सलाम करता हूँ हिम्मत ना हारें।
— Saurabh (@sauravyadav1133) July 22, 2026
और मैं इस मुल्क की हुक़ूमत से बस इतना कहना चाहता हूँ कि सब याद रखा जाएगा - नसीरुद्दीन शाह
pic.twitter.com/EmtfCRaRjr
Shah said he was deeply disturbed by the way students were treated during the protest. Expressing solidarity with young people, he praised students and teachers, saying that much of what he learned about acting came from the students he had taught over the years.
He also criticized those responsible for using force against protesters and urged authorities to treat young citizens with compassion and dignity.
Calls for students to remain strong
During his address, Naseeruddin Shah encouraged the protesting students not to lose hope despite the challenges they were facing.
He said many people across the country stand with the students and support their right to raise their concerns peacefully. According to the actor, the country's youth continue to inspire hope, and he urged them to remain determined in pursuing their cause.
Shah also appealed to those involved in handling the protests to reflect on their actions and consider the long-term impact of such incidents.
Viral video claiming Shah attended protest turns out to be misleading
Around the same time, a video began circulating on social media claiming that Naseeruddin Shah and his sons, Vivaan Shah and Imaad Shah, had personally participated in the Jantar Mantar protest.
However, the claim was later found to be incorrect. The viral clip was reportedly from a film screening held at Regal Cinema in Mumbai and was unrelated to the Delhi demonstration.
The clarification helped address confusion created by the misleading social media posts.
Protests spread beyond Delhi
The demonstrations linked to the alleged NEET paper leak have expanded beyond the national capital. Supporters of the movement have also organized protests in Mumbai and other cities.
In response to the possibility of large gatherings, Mumbai Police announced restrictions from July 23 to August 6. The order prohibits assemblies of five or more people, public processions, the use of loudspeakers, and fireworks in designated areas during the period.
Authorities said the measures were introduced to maintain law and order and prevent any untoward incidents.
Growing public debate
The incident has triggered widespread discussion across social media, with citizens, activists, and public personalities expressing differing views on the handling of the protests. While some have emphasized the importance of maintaining public order, others have stressed the need to protect the democratic right to peaceful protest.
Naseeruddin Shah's comments have become part of this broader conversation, highlighting concerns over the treatment of students and the importance of safeguarding civil liberties while maintaining public safety.
As the debate continues, attention remains focused on the developments surrounding the student movement and the official response to the demonstrations.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available statements and reports. The views expressed by individuals mentioned are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.