Bollywood actor Alia Bhatt has publicly expressed her solidarity with students across India protesting the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, joining a growing number of film personalities advocating for a more transparent and accountable education system. Bhatt shared her sentiments in an Instagram post, stating that the students' courage "humbles" her.
"The last few days have broken my heart and then mended it, again and again, with hope," Bhatt wrote. She emphasized that behind every student's stand lies a dream, a family's hope, and countless sacrifices. "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."
Bollywood Unites for Student Demands
Alia Bhatt's remarks echo a broader wave of support from the Indian film industry. Superstar Salman Khan also weighed in, describing the NEET paper leak as a "very serious issue." Khan expressed sadness over reports of the peaceful movement taking a "violent turn" and extended his empathy to the injured students and their families. He commended students and parents for uniting to demand an improved educational system.
Other prominent actors who have voiced their support include Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Aditi Rao Hydari, Huma Qureshi, Shabana Azmi, Prakash Raj, Chinmayi Sripada, R Madhavan, Rajkummar Rao, and Anupam Kher. Their collective stance highlights the widespread concern over the integrity of national examinations.
The NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak and Nationwide Protests
The movement, spearheaded by the CJP, originated following the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. It has since evolved into a nationwide campaign addressing repeated irregularities in examination processes. Students and activists are demanding:
- Greater transparency and accountability within the examination system.
- Stricter safeguards to prevent future paper leaks.
- Fair compensation for candidates adversely affected by the leak.
- Broader educational reforms.
- The resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Clashes During "Chalo Sansad" March
The agitation reached a critical point on July 20 during the "Chalo Sansad" march in Delhi. Thousands of students converged at Jantar Mantar, aiming to proceed towards Parliament. However, clashes reportedly erupted when police intervened to prevent the procession from advancing, further intensifying the calls for immediate action and dialogue from authorities.