‘Gusse Se Khaul Raha Hoon…’: Naseeruddin Shah Condemns Student Lathicharge, Urges Protesters Not to Lose Hope

Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has spoken out on the ongoing CJP-led student protests, expressing anguish over the recent police action against demonstrators in New Delhi. In a video message shared on social media, the acclaimed actor urged students to remain hopeful while condemning the use of force during the protests.

The statement comes a day after clashes were reported during the CJP’s “Chalo Sansad” march, where Delhi Police used lathicharge and tear gas to disperse protesters. Authorities have maintained that the protesters violated prohibitory orders and turned aggressive, while protesters have alleged excessive use of force and indiscriminate action.

‘My Heart Is Filled With Anger’

Speaking in Urdu, Naseeruddin Shah said he was deeply hurt by the visuals emerging from the protests.

The actor expressed solidarity with the students and criticised those involved in the police action, comparing the masked personnel seen in videos to United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. He also appealed to the authorities to consider the human impact of their actions.

Shah concluded his message by encouraging students not to lose courage, saying that many citizens stand with them and continue to believe in the country’s youth.

Appeal for Peaceful Protest

While extending support to the students, the veteran actor urged them to continue their movement with determination. His remarks join a growing list of reactions from public figures calling for dialogue, restraint and a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis.

Several actors, activists and political leaders have, in recent days, appealed for constructive engagement between protesters and the government rather than escalation on the streets.

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What Happened During the Protest?

According to Delhi Police, protesters participating in Monday’s demonstration allegedly ignored repeated warnings, violated prohibitory orders and displayed aggressive behaviour, prompting law enforcement to intervene.

On the other hand, student groups and organisers have claimed that police personnel used excessive force, leading to injuries among protesters. Videos circulating on social media appear to show lathicharge and the use of tear gas, although accounts of the incident differ between authorities and demonstrators.

Some protesters have also alleged that individuals in civilian clothing participated in the action, a claim that has not been independently verified.

Why Are the Protests Taking Place?

The CJP-led protests have continued for more than two weeks over allegations of irregularities in the education sector, including concerns surrounding the NEET examination process.

Social activist Sonam Wangchuk also joined the movement earlier this month by launching a hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, bringing additional attention to the issue.

Meanwhile, opposition leaders, including Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, have also participated in demonstrations demanding greater accountability and transparency. Gandhi and several Congress leaders were briefly detained by police during a protest outside the Prime Minister’s residence on Tuesday.

Calls for Dialogue Continue

As the protests enter another week, demands for constructive dialogue continue to grow from multiple quarters.

With students, political leaders, activists and public personalities voicing their concerns, the focus remains on finding a peaceful and democratic resolution while ensuring public safety and respecting the right to peaceful protest.