Preity Zinta warns against CJP ‘hijacking’ students’ protest, calls for talks
Preity Zinta has reacted to the ongoing CJP student protests by supporting the demand for educational reforms, while warning against attempts to “hijack” the peaceful demonstrations. The actor called for meaningful dialogue among all stakeholders to safeguard the future of the youth.
After supporting activist Sonam Wangchuk, actress Preity Zinta has once again expressed her concern over the ongoing Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) student protests in Delhi. The actor called for educational reforms, warning that peaceful demonstrations should not be “hijacked by anti-national elements” to create anarchy.
Sharing a detailed note on X, Preeti stressed the importance of protecting the core purpose of the protest and ensuring that the voice of students demanding reforms is not overshadowed by disruptive elements.
❮❯
He wrote, “While it is important to support our students and ask for educational reforms that positively impact the future of our youth, it is also very important that the peaceful protests of students are not hijacked by anti-national elements to create chaos and change the nature of the protests.”
The 51-year-old actor also expressed concern over the possibility of external forces taking advantage of the anger and frustration of students to create unrest.
“Seeing so much hatred and division online makes me wonder if bad elements within and outside our country have begun working overtime to weaponize the anger and frustration felt by our students (sic),” he said.
Preeti reiterated her faith in democracy, law and order while calling for constructive dialogue between the government and the protesters. She said that she always believed in hard work, equality and excellence, which should never be compromised.
Veer Zaara The actor said that she believes in democracy, law and order and government of the country. He expressed hope that both sides will hold meaningful and constructive talks to remove any nefarious elements and agenda from the protests and talks, thereby ensuring a brighter future for the youth and democracy.
Earlier, the actor had extended his support to activist Sonam Wangchuk and the protesting students. He urged the government to initiate meaningful dialogue with Sonam Wangchuk and student organizations to prevent her health from deteriorating further. He appealed to Wangchuk to end his fast and said that his health was as important as the issue for which he was fighting.
The actress extended her heartfelt and unwavering support to the students and Wangchuk, saying that they are fighting for the future of India and its youth while working towards reforming the education system. He also wished them strength in their endeavours.
The actor’s statement comes amid heightened tension at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, where protests intensified after Wangchuk was removed from the protest site in the early hours of July 18.
Citing his deteriorating health, in compliance with medical advice and Delhi High Court order, Delhi Police shifted him to a hospital after he completed his 21-day indefinite hunger strike.
Wangchuk has been protesting against irregularities in competitive exams and has demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The issue gained further attention following concerns over exam paper leaks, including the NEET paper leak controversy, which sparked a nationwide discussion on the education system.
On 20 July, tension escalated at Jantar Mantar after Delhi Police lathicharged protesters, leading to clashes between protesters and law enforcement personnel. Wangchuk has since continued his protest and demanded reforms and action on exam irregularities.