Anupam Kher Backs NEET Protest, Urges Students Against Political Hijacking

Bollywood actor Anupam Kher has become the latest film personality to weigh in on the ongoing student protest at Jantar Mantar over the NEET paper leak. In a video message posted on social media, Kher expressed solidarity with the students while cautioning them against allowing outsiders to use their movement for political or ideological agendas.

The protest has drawn contrasting responses from celebrities. Actors Shabana Azmi and Prakash Raj have attended demonstrations and joined a march towards Parliament, while lyricist Manoj Muntashir refused to participate, claiming the protest had been taken over by people whose ideologies he does not support.

In his video, Kher addressed students directly, saying: 'My greetings to all students. A few days ago, when I saw pictures of your demonstrations, I felt disturbed and saddened. No student should have to go through such circumstances just to make their voice heard. I too was once a student. I had dreams, I asked questions and I questioned the system.'

Calling student movements the 'most honest voice' of society, Kher added: 'Students have no selfish motives. They are worried about their future, they care for their rights and they dream of making this country better. From the bottom of my heart, I stand with you.'

However, the actor urged caution about outside involvement. 'When people from outside start participating in your protest—politicians, those who are present at every demonstration or people whose purpose is not your cause but their own agenda—then be careful,' he said. He warned that a larger crowd does not always strengthen a movement, saying: 'Many times, those very people turn your strength into your weakness. They don't amplify your voice—they use your voice for their own benefit.'

Kher concluded by encouraging students to protect the integrity of their movement: 'Your fight should remain yours. Don't let others use it to promote their own agenda. In a democracy, it is your right to question, protest and express your opinion fearlessly. But it is also your responsibility to ensure your voice is not hijacked for someone else's benefit.'

The actor's comments came days after Manoj Muntashir, while condemning the alleged NEET paper leak, told Times Now: 'I won't go to Jantar Mantar because I won't feel good standing with the people who are representing this protest.'