R Madhavan faces backlash over silence on NEET protest: FTII students put up ‘Gayab’ and ‘NEET for Sale’ posters

Actor R Madhavan has found himself at the centre of an online debate after students at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) criticised his silence over the ongoing protests linked to the alleged NEET paper leak.

Images circulating on social media showed the door of Madhavan’s office at FTII covered with posters carrying the words “Gayab” and “NEET for Sale”, drawing widespread attention online.

The posters appeared amid nationwide demonstrations demanding accountability and reforms in the country’s examination system.

Posters go viral on social media

Photographs of the posters quickly spread across social media platforms, prompting mixed reactions from users.

Many questioned why R Madhavan, who currently serves as the chairman of FTII, had not publicly commented on the issue despite growing support for the student movement from several personalities in the entertainment industry.

Several users also posted critical comments online, urging the actor to address the concerns being raised by students.

Celebrities continue to react

The ongoing protests have sparked reactions from a number of actors, filmmakers and musicians in recent days.

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Several public figures, including Shabana Azmi, Prakash Raj, Rajkummar Rao, Arijit Singh, Mrunal Thakur, Preity Zinta, Anurag Kashyap, and others have expressed their views on the issue, with many calling for dialogue, transparency and reforms in the education system.

Meanwhile, the criticism directed at R Madhavan has largely centred on his decision not to make any public statement regarding the protests.

Background of the protest

The demonstrations began following allegations surrounding the NEET examination, with students demanding accountability and greater transparency in the examination process.

The movement later expanded into a nationwide campaign seeking broader educational reforms.

During a recent march towards Parliament in New Delhi, clashes were reported between protesters and police, leading to injuries and triggering nationwide debate over the handling of the demonstrations.

While protesters alleged excessive use of force by authorities, the Delhi Police stated that action was taken after sections of the crowd allegedly turned aggressive and damaged public property.

As discussions continue across the country, the role of public figures and institutions in responding to student concerns remains a subject of intense debate.