Actor-couple: Riteish Deshmukh and: Genelia Deshmukh expressed their support for the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) ‘Sansad Chalo’ protest, joining a growing list of film personalities who are backing the youth-led movement in Delhi. Their message came as students gathered at Jantar Mantar to demand nationwide education reforms and raise concerns over alleged irregularities in NEET. Apart from the couple, the actors Bhumi Pednekar, Huma Qureshi, Nandita Das, are veteran actors Shabana Azmi and screenwriter Sutapa Sikdar also expressed solidarity with the protesters.
Riteish and Genelia called the youth the future of the country
Carrying X, Riteish shared a joint message for himself and Genelia, urging people to stand with the youth of the country and recognize the importance of their voices.The post read, “We stand in solidarity with the youth of our country. Their voices deserve to be heard, loud, clear, and fearless. They are the heartbeat of our democracy and the true architects of the future (sic) of our country.”The statement further added, “We will listen, support, and empower them. The strength, courage, and dreams of our youth will shape the India we seek to build. Jai Hind. Genelia & Riteish Deshmukh #YouthOfIndia #VoiceOfTheYouth #FutureOfOurNation (sic).”
Protest centers on education reforms
The demonstration was organized on the opening day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament. The protesters demanded reforms in the education system and demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination. As the march advanced towards Parliament, clashes broke out between demonstrators and security personnel.
CJP delegation met JP Nadda
Following the protest, a delegation of the CJP met Union Health Minister JP Nadda and submitted a memorandum highlighting three main demands. These include the immediate release of activist Sonam Wangchuk from hospital care, the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan and Rs 1 crore compensation for the families of NEET aspirants who allegedly committed suicide after the examination paper was leaked.
Shabana Azmi is reportedly ill
Veteran actor Shabana Azmi also attended the protest in support of the students. During the gathering, it was reported that the 75-year-old actor was not feeling well.Videos circulating from the protest site showed volunteers and security personnel helping Shabana after she appeared to have fainted. He was taken to a nearby security cabin for medical attention.