Salman Khan Backs Student Protests Against Paper Leaks, Urges Peaceful Focus

Bollywood star Salman Khan has voiced his support for students protesting against paper leaks, calling the issue "very serious" and urging that the movement remain focused on education rather than politics. Taking to Instagram, Salman praised students for coming together to demand a better education system and also acknowledged the support extended by their parents. However, he expressed sadness over reports that the otherwise peaceful protests had turned violent. "It was such a peaceful movement, feel so sad that it had to take a violent turn. My heart goes out to the students and their families who were hurt. Paper leak is a very serious issue, and I am glad to know n see that the kids of our country have come together for a better educational system, and their parents supported them," Salman wrote. The actor lauded the students for choosing peaceful means to raise their concerns and said their determination reflected a positive future for the country. "I truly appreciate the stand they have taken, showing dedication, sincerity, and keenness to study hard n make their future and a greater, educated India. This andolan, this protest, is the right way to go abt it, n the students have done this peacefully. So courageous and brave. Driven and motivated towards education, this generation will make India proud," he added. Salman also stressed that the protests should not become a political battleground, insisting that the students alone deserve recognition for their efforts. He expressed confidence that the government would respond constructively. "This issue is between the students and the educational system, it should not be hijacked politically, the credit should only go to the students of our country, and I am sure the government will also give them all the support n make it a stronger educational system. It's a win-win situation. Hoping n praying for a positive decision. God bless all of you who wanna be educated," he wrote. The actor also shared his vision for India's education system, saying learning should become aspirational and attract students from across the world. "Education should be the next trend and fashion, and should get trendier n more fashionable yr by yr, itna k bahar se log come to India to study and India becomes an educational hub," Salman said.

Protests continue over paper leak controversy

Salman's comments come amid nationwide protests over alleged paper leaks. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has issued notices to the Centre and the Delhi Police on three public interest litigations alleging excessive use of force during the July 20 protest march organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). The court has also directed authorities to preserve CCTV footage and other electronic evidence related to the incident. Separately, activist Sonam Wangchuk has sought the Centre's assurance that no punitive or retaliatory legal action will be taken against protesters who participated in the CJP's 'Sansad Chalo' march, making it a condition for ending his indefinite fast. The government has maintained that it is ready for a debate, while Parliament continues to witness a deadlock over the Opposition's demand for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and a discussion on the NEET-UG paper leak under a specific rule.