Pakistani actress, television host, and drama reviewer Nadia Khan has questioned veteran Indian screenwriter and lyricist Javed Akhtar for not publicly commenting on the ongoing student protests in India.
The demonstrations have gained momentum as students continue demanding reforms in the country’s examination system following allegations of examination irregularities and paper leaks.
According to Nadia Khan, influential public figures should speak up during moments of national concern, especially when students are demanding greater transparency and accountability.
Nadia Khan Praises Shabana Azmi’s Support
While discussing the protests, Nadia Khan praised veteran actress Shabana Azmi for publicly supporting the student movement.
She noted that Shabana Azmi had openly stood with the protesters and questioned why Javed Akhtar had not expressed a similar position.
During the discussion, Nadia said:
“Remember Om Puri, who only praised Pakistan, and India had him killed. The way these people are speaking, even their lives could be in danger because they are influential figures.”
She also highlighted Shabana Azmi’s participation in the demonstrations.
According to Nadia, public figures should actively support students seeking reforms rather than remain silent.
Nadia Khan Directly Questions Javed Akhtar
Continuing her remarks, Nadia Khan directly addressed Javed Akhtar’s silence.
She said:
“Look at Shabana Azmi she is out there standing near the protest trucks, supporting the movement. But she should also go home and speak to Javed Akhtar.”
Referring to his earlier remarks about Pakistan, Nadia added:
“Javed Akhtar is the one who says that rather than going to Pakistan, he would prefer to go to hell. I said to him that day as well, ‘You are already in hell.’ Now tell us, what is happening in your own hell, and why are you silent? Here, Javed Akhtar is quiet, which does not make sense when his wife, Shabana Azmi, has come out in support. Javed Akhtar is nowhere to be seen.”
Calls for Public Figures to Speak Up
Nadia Khan argued that celebrities and influential personalities have a responsibility to use their platforms during major national developments.
According to her, remaining silent on issues affecting students sends the wrong message, particularly when large-scale demonstrations continue across the country.
She maintained that public voices can help amplify concerns raised by young people demanding reforms.
Student Protests Continue Across India
Student demonstrations continue in several parts of India as protesters demand greater transparency in the examination system.
The movement follows allegations surrounding examination irregularities and paper leak controversies.
Protesters are calling for comprehensive education reforms while demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
The demonstrations, led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), have developed into one of India’s largest student movements in recent years.
As the protests continue, the debate over the role of influential public figures has also intensified, following Nadia Khan’s criticism of Javed Akhtar’s silence on the issue.
