actor couple Ritual Deshmukh and Genelia Deshmukh Expressed support for the Cockroach Jantar Party’s (CJP) ‘Sansad Chalo’ protests, joining a growing list of film celebrities supporting the youth-led movement in Delhi. Their message came as students gathered at Jantar Mantar to demand nationwide education reforms and express concerns over alleged NEET irregularities. Apart from the couple, there are also veteran actors such as actors Bhumi Pednekar, Huma Qureshi, Nandita Das etc. Shabana Azmi Screenwriter Sutapa Sikdar also expressed solidarity with the protesters.
Riteish and Genelia call youth the future of the country
During the X show, Riteish shared a joint message on behalf of himself and Genelia, urging people to stand with the country’s youth and recognize the importance of their voices.“We stand with our nation’s young people. Their voices deserve to be heard, loud, clear and fearless. They are the heartbeat of our democracy and the true architects of our nation’s future,” the post read.The statement further added, “Let us listen, support and empower them. The energy, courage and dreams of our youth will shape the India we aspire to build. Jai Hind. Genelia and Riteish Deshmukh #YouthOfIndia #VoiceOfTheYouth #FutureOfOurNation (sic).”
Protests focus on education reform
The demonstration was organized on the opening day of the monsoon session of Parliament. The protesters are demanding reforms in the education system and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in NEET exams. As the march advanced towards parliament, clashes broke out between demonstrators and security personnel.
CJP delegation meets JP Nadda
After the protest, a CJP delegation met Union Health Minister JP Nadda and submitted a memorandum highlighting three main demands. These include the immediate release of activist Sonam Wangchuk, resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan and Rs 1 crore compensation to the family of a NEET aspirant who allegedly committed suicide after the question paper was leaked.
Shabana Azmi reportedly sick
Veteran actor Shabana Azmi also attended the protest to support the students. It was reported that during the party, the 75-year-old actor felt unwell.Video circulated at the protest showed Shabana appearing to feel dizzy as volunteers and security personnel assisted her. She was then escorted to a nearby safety cabin to receive medical attention.
