Lyricist and poet Manoj Muntashir has expressed support for students protesting against the NEET paper leak, while making it clear that he will not participate in the ongoing demonstration at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. According to Muntashir, although the concerns raised by students are valid, he does not wish to associate with individuals leading the protest whom he describes as part of the “tukde tukde gang.”
Speaking in an interview with Times Now, Muntashir said that the alleged examination leak is a serious issue that demands accountability. He stressed that any irregularity affecting students’ futures must be investigated thoroughly and those responsible should face strict action.
‘The System Must Be Held Accountable’
Commenting on the controversy, Muntashir stated that the alleged leak cannot be justified under any circumstances. He emphasized that if students have suffered due to flaws in the examination process, the authorities and institutions involved must be held responsible.
He also remarked that the country’s youth deserve better and that their concerns should not be overshadowed by political interests or ideological agendas.
Why Manoj Muntashir Refused to Join the Jantar Mantar Protest
Explaining his decision to stay away from the protest site, Muntashir said he disagreed with several individuals and groups associated with the demonstration. After observing the speeches and participants at the rally, he stated that he did not want to be identified with what he described as divisive and anti-national narratives.
The lyricist alleged that some people present at the protest had previously been linked to controversial slogans and statements regarding national unity, Kashmir, and religious sentiments. Because of these concerns, he said he could not stand alongside those he believes promote the “Bharat tere tukde honge” ideology.
Film Industry Voices Support for Student Protest
Despite differing views on the protest’s organisers, several personalities from the film industry have publicly supported students demanding transparency and accountability in the examination system.
Celebrities including Sonu Sood, Vir Das, Dia Mirza, Soha Ali Khan, Aditi Rao Hydari, Rohit Saraf, Aayush Sharma, Prakash Raj, and Imran Khan have expressed solidarity with students through social media and public statements.
Other prominent figures such as Riteish Deshmukh, Genelia Deshmukh, Bhumi Pednekar, Huma Qureshi, Preity Zinta, Nandita Das, Shabana Azmi, Sutapa Sikdar, and Diljit Dosanjh have also voiced support for the movement.
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Celebrities Demand Transparency and Fairness
The celebrities backing the student-led campaign have called for greater transparency in competitive examinations, a fair investigation into alleged irregularities, and accountability from the authorities concerned. They have also urged that student concerns be addressed through peaceful dialogue and a transparent resolution process.
