Bollywood Voices Unite Against Hate Threats on Student Activist

Mumbai – The ongoing student protest at Jantar Mantar has brought a chorus of reactions from the entertainment industry. Actress‑producer Surbhi Chanda, director‑producer Karan Sharma and actress Bhumika Pednekar each delivered comments that, while covering different facets, all stressed the need for a respectful discourse.

Chanda said the focus should remain on genuine shortcomings within the schooling system. “Raising questions about policy gaps is a democratic right. However, diverting the conversation to unrelated accusations weakens the core demand for reform,” she noted.

She also stressed that no political figure, party or government body should be subjected to slurs. “State your grievances, raise your hand in protest, but keep the language clean. Derogatory posters or profane slogans undermine the credibility of any movement,” Chanda insisted.

Sharma echoed the call for decorum, reminding that opposition must preserve dignity. “Even when we disagree with the prime minister or senior officials, the office they occupy deserves respect. The method of resistance is as crucial as the message itself,” he told reporters.

Pednekar highlighted a darker dimension: a young woman featured in the rally’s footage has been subjected to a torrent of rape threats and death wishes, and her family members have also been harassed. Pednekar posted a video on Instagram, urging the public to stop such targeted bullying. “It is unacceptable to intimidate a girl simply because we disagree with her perspective. Threatening her mental peace or safety is a serious crime,” she said, drawing from her own experiences with online trolling.

She appealed for solidarity: “Every Indian wants the country to move forward. When we discuss the right issues with decorum, we are more likely to achieve meaningful change.”