'Their courage humbles me': Alia Bhatt backs NEET protesters as agitation intensifies

Amid criticism of Bollywood stars for largely remaining silent over the crackdown on protesters, Alia shared a note on social media as CJP protesters continue to camp at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, demanding accountability from the government over the paper leak that has affected lakhs of aspirants.

Alia wrote, "The last few days have broken my heart and then mended it, again and again, with hope. Behind every student standing their ground is a dream, a family's hope, a journey of countless sacrifices. They represent not just themselves but everyone who has supported them, while creating a better path for those who will come after them.

"Their courage humbles me. Their resolve is a mirror held up to all of us, asking whether we are truly listening to the very people who will inherit and shape this country's tomorrow. For the students. By the students. The future is theirs. Jai Hind."

Her remarks came hours after Bollywood superstar Salman Khan voiced his support for the students, praising their peaceful movement while urging that the issue remain free from political interference.

Calling paper leaks a "very serious issue", Salman said he was encouraged to see young people unite to demand a fairer education system, with the support of their parents.

He praised the protesters for their determination and commitment to education, describing the movement as peaceful, courageous, and driven by a desire to build a stronger India.

CJP protesters have been camped at Delhi's Jantar Mantar for nearly a month, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, reforms in the education sector, and Rs. 1 crore in compensation for the families of all NEET aspirants who died by suicide.

Thousands of young people have joined the protests, with crowds swelling in support of the movement that has put the Modi government under pressure since the police crackdown on protesters during the Parliament March on July 20.

The movement gathered further momentum after activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on an indefinite fast in support of the agitation, was forcibly removed by police from Jantar Mantar and admitted to a government hospital.

He has since been shifted to a private medical facility following a court order.