Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah backs students protesting at Jamia Millia Islamia in Delhi, including by sharing a new video in which he criticises the government’s response to campus unrest. The reports say he also frames his stance as one of questioning the authorities’ treatment of young people, educational institutions and democracy.
Outlets also note Shah’s earlier support for other student protests, including an indefinite sit-in by students at the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute following violent incidents on campus. While Shah’s backing and criticisms form the core of the coverage, different outlets emphasise different reactions: The Hindu highlights Shah’s supportive stance, whereas Free Press Journal focuses on the BJP’s response.
Free Press Journal reports that BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia attacked Shah over the “dimagi naxal” remark, using a reference to the Bollywood film “Sarfarosh” to frame his criticism. The outlet’s framing concentrates on the political counter-reaction to Shah’s video, alongside the students’ stated demands relating to restoring student union elections and raising concerns about university administration.
