Diljit Dosanjh Backs CJP Protest Over NEET Irregularities, Expects 'Anti-National' Label
Actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh has voiced his support for students participating in the ongoing CJP protests, which address alleged National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) irregularities and demand education reforms. In a statement shared on his Instagram story, Dosanjh criticized the treatment of the students and urged authorities to address their grievances.
Expressing his views on the situation, Dosanjh wrote that what occurred was "very wrong" and that students should not have been treated in such a manner. "I request the authorities to listen to the students' demands. The voice of the people is the voice of God," he stated.
The actor-singer also indicated that he expects to face criticism for his public stance, noting that he has previously been labeled "anti-national" for speaking out. Referring to his past support for the 2020–21 farmers' protest, Dosanjh mentioned that he faced significant backlash and legal issues that he is still unable to discuss publicly. "Even now, I know I will be called anti-national again," he added, stating that "God is watching everything."
Demands for Education Reform and Ministerial Resignation
The protest, organized to coincide with the start of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, sought nationwide education reforms and called for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following the alleged NEET irregularities. Clashes were reported between security forces and protesters as the demonstration marched toward the Parliament building.
In connection with the demonstrations, a CJP delegation met with Union Health Minister JP Nadda to present a memorandum containing three primary demands. These demands include the immediate release of activist Sonam Wangchuk from the hospital, the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan, and a compensation of Rs 1 crore for the families of NEET aspirants who died by suicide following the exam paper leak.
Industry Figures Express Solidarity
Dosanjh is among several prominent film personalities who have publicly supported the youth-led movement. Actor-couple Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh expressed solidarity, with Riteish stating that the voices of the youth deserve to be heard "loud, clear, and without fear." Other actors, including Bhumi Pednekar, Huma Qureshi, Nandita Das, and veteran actor Shabana Azmi, alongside screenwriter Sutapa Sikdar, have also backed the protesters.
Sutapa Sikdar highlighted the financial struggles of many participating students, writing that many arrived "with 20 rupees in their pocket" and full of hope, seeking accountability rather than being the children of rich and influential individuals. During the gathering, veteran actor Shabana Azmi reportedly felt dizzy and was assisted by volunteers and security personnel at the protest site.
Prior Controversies and Citizenship Reports
Dosanjh's anticipation of being labeled "anti-national" relates to the criticism he received during the 2020–21 farmers' protests, where he advocated for peaceful dialogue and the right to protest. Despite the criticism from certain political figures and social media users, Dosanjh has maintained that raising concerns for citizens should not be equated with acting against the country.
Recently, Dosanjh also addressed media reports regarding his citizenship status during a live interaction with fans. Responding to reports claiming he acquired US citizenship in 2022 and has been traveling on a US passport, he did not directly confirm or deny the claims, instead using humor to address the topic. He expressed a wish that people could travel to any country without visas, envisioning a unified world.
Additionally, the actor-singer spoke about his recent film Satluj, which was removed from the streaming platform ZEE5 within 48 hours of its release. In the film, Dosanjh portrayed human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who exposed alleged illegal killings and secret cremations in Punjab during the militancy era. Dosanjh stated that he could not speak openly about the issues surrounding the film's release, adding that the restrictions on speaking about the 1995 events persist today.
