Salman Khan Backs Student Protests Against Exam Paper Leaks, Urges Apolitical Movement

Actor Salman Khan on Wednesday extended support to students protesting against alleged examination paper leaks, calling the movement "peaceful" and urging that it should not be turned into a political issue.

In a post on X, Khan said he was saddened that the protest had turned violent and expressed solidarity with students and their families who were injured.

"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," he wrote.

Praising the students for coming together to demand reforms in the education system, Khan said the movement reflected their dedication towards building a better future.

"I truly appreciate the stand they have taken, showing dedication, sincerity, and keenness to study hard... This andolan, this protest, is the right way to go abt it, n the students have done this peacefully," he said.

The actor also appealed for the agitation to remain focused on students' concerns rather than political interests.

"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," Khan said, adding that he was confident the government would support measures to strengthen the education system.

Calling education the "next trend and fashion", he said India should aspire to become a global education hub that attracts students from around the world.

Khan's remarks come amid a month-long protest led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, demanding Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over NEET exam paper leaks. The agitation turned violent during the July 20 'Chalo Sansad' march after police stopped protesters from heading towards Parliament, leading to clashes, injuries and multiple FIRs.

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on a hunger strike in support of the movement, on Wednesday said the Centre had assured him it would "positively consider" Pradhan's resignation. The Delhi High Court also sought responses from the Centre and Delhi Police on petitions alleging excessive force against protesters, while the CJP said it was ready for talks with the government.

Khan is among the latest public figures to comment on the issue, lending his support to the students while urging that the movement remain peaceful and centred on educational reforms rather than partisan politics.