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Kiren Rijiju and Puneet Issar criticise Naseeruddin Shah's comments amid the escalating controversy. (Img: X)
Mumbai: Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has criticised the Centre over the ongoing student protests at Jamia Millia Islamia in New Delhi, describing himself as a “proud Dimagi Naxal” and accusing the government of undermining young people, educational institutions and democratic values.
In a video shared on Facebook, Shah questioned the government's response to student agitations and objected to the labels used against those who challenge its policies. Referring to terms such as “anti-national” and “tukde-tukde gang”, the actor argued that such characterisations were being directed at critics of the establishment.
Shah expressed concern over the treatment of students and questioned whether the government's actions were weakening the confidence of the country's youth and threatening the education system. He also alleged that the government's approach posed a danger to democracy.
Referring to Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) and Jamia Millia Islamia, Shah said students at these institutions had faced hardship and warned that their experiences would not be forgotten. He also criticised members of the BJP's IT cell over their online responses to dissenting voices.
Concluding his message, the actor expressed confidence that the country's youth would not be intimidated and that democratic institutions would endure. He ended the video by conveying his greetings and prayers to the students.
Shah's comments drew a sharp response from actor Puneet Issar, who accused him of engaging in selective criticism of the government. Speaking to IANS, Issar questioned why those raising concerns about the government's conduct did not speak out with similar force against individuals or groups whom he alleged sought to divide the country.
Issar maintained that criticism should not be selective when matters concerning national interest were involved and objected to what he described as support for forces working against the country's unity. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also criticised Shah's video, characterising his remarks as dangerous.
The controversy comes amid continuing demonstrations at Jamia Millia Islamia, where students have been pressing for the restoration of the university's elected students' union. Elections have not been held since 2006, following an incident of violence, according to Education Minister Pralhad Joshi.
The protesters have sought formal restoration of the union, a definite schedule for approving its constitution and a clear date for elections. Several students have been on hunger strike since October 12. The agitation intensified after videos circulated on social media showing damaged windows and alleged vandalism on the university campus, including damage to surveillance cameras and other property.
Joshi condemned the incidents and said a committee would examine the students' grievances. While acknowledging the long gap since the last student-union elections, he maintained that violence and disorder would not be tolerated. The standoff has brought renewed attention to the students' demand for elected representation and the wider debate over dissent, campus governance and the government's response to student movements.
