Actors Naseeruddin Shah and Anupam Kher Support NEET Protesters

Veteran actors Naseeruddin Shah and Anupam Kher issued public statements supporting student protesters in Delhi who are demonstrating against alleged NEET examination paper leaks. The protests, led by the Cockroach Janta Party, have continued for over two weeks and culminated in a 'Chalo Sansad' march on July 20.

Shah condemned the Delhi Police for using tear gas and batons to disperse the crowds, comparing the masked officers to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. He urged the youth to remain hopeful and keep fighting. Anupam Kher also expressed solidarity with the students' demand for accountability, though he cautioned them to maintain their independence and avoid letting political opportunists hijack the movement.

The situation escalated following the hospitalization of activist Sonam Wangchuck after a 21-day hunger strike at Jantar Mantar. While the Delhi Police stated that protesters became aggressive and violated prohibitory orders, the Delhi High Court has since issued notices to the Indian government and police regarding three public interest litigations. These filings allege excessive force during the July 20 protests, prompting the court to order the preservation of CCTV footage and electronic records.