The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest has emerged as one of India's biggest youth-led movements, drawing attention to alleged NEET-UG paper leaks, examination irregularities, and broader demands for education reform. The movement gained nationwide momentum after thousands of students gathered in New Delhi for the "Sansad Chalo" march, which ended in clashes with police at Jantar Mantar.
As videos of the crackdown spread across social media, several Bollywood celebrities and public figures weighed in, some expressing solidarity with the students, while others defended the government's approach or questioned the protests.
Here's a look at who said what.
Diljit Dosanjh
Following clashes between students and police during the Parliament march, Diljit Dosanjh voiced his support for the protesters through an Instagram Story. He urged authorities to listen to students instead of responding with force and also acknowledged the criticism he expected to receive for speaking out. "What happened today was very unfortunate. Students should not be treated like this. I request that the authorities listen to the students' demands. The voice of the people is the voice of God."
He added that he expected to be labeled "anti-nationalist" again, recalling the legal troubles and online backlash he faced after supporting the 2020–21 farmers' protests.
Sonu Sood
Actor Sonu Sood condemned the police response to the demonstrations, saying students deserved compassion rather than violence. "Our students don't need lathis (sticks), they need hands that embrace them."
Dia Mirza
Dia Mirza criticized the use of force against demonstrators, describing the police response as deeply troubling. "A day when the forces that are duty-bound to protect their citizens used brute force on them, including women and children, in reaction to their peaceful protest. Hopeful and angry."
Aditi Rao Hydari
Aditi Rao Hydari appealed for empathy and constructive dialogue, urging authorities to engage with students respectfully. "We must ensure a safe environment built on respect, dignity, and empathy for all our brave students... Listening to one another is the foundation of meaningful progress."
Shabana Azmi
Unlike many celebrities who expressed support online, veteran actor Shabana Azmi joined the protesters on the ground at Jantar Mantar. She marched alongside students, rode in a parade truck, and later defended the movement while responding to questions about Bollywood's limited participation.
Protesters stand amid debris strewn across a road during clashes with police at a demonstration organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on the opening day of Parliament's Monsoon Session on July 20, 2026 in New Delhi, India. A mix of protesters gathered in New Delhi on Monday as discontent bubbled over myriad issues, and as Sonam Wangchuk, an activist who was fasting in protest, was forcibly taken to hospital on Sunday.Getty Images
Prakash Raj
Prakash Raj also attended the protest in person, holding a copy of the Indian Constitution while addressing the gathering. He called for greater government accountability and criticized the silence of many public figures.
Vir Das
Comedian and actor Vir Das urged fellow entertainers to stand with young people, arguing that artists who rely on Gen Z audiences should not stay silent on issues affecting them.
Sonakshi Sinha, Riteish Deshmukh, Genelia Deshmukh, Swara Bhasker, Soha Ali Khan, and Bhumi Pednekar
These actors publicly amplified messages supporting students' right to peaceful protest and called for meaningful dialogue between the government and CJP representatives.
Only the actor turned politicians who are part of current Indian government opposed the movement!
Kangana Ranaut
Actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut criticized the protest strategy, arguing that policy decisions should not be influenced by street demonstrations. "You cannot arm-twist the government into deciding who to sack and who to keep... If you feel so strongly, you should stand for election yourself."
Hema Malini
Actor and BJP MP Hema Malini advised against public demonstrations and street blockades. She maintained that lasting education reforms should be pursued through structured discussions and parliamentary processes rather than protests on the streets.
Haze from Canadian wildfires blankets the Manhattan skyline, including the Empire State Building, as seen from Brooklyn Bridge Park on July 17, 2026 in New York City. New York City has been under an Air Quality Health Advisory as the Canadian and Great Lakes wildfire smoke gradually moves through the area, creating a thick haze in the heat. Getty Images