Sonu Nigam, looking irritated, rejected all questions on the students’ protest. Video
While talking to the media, Sonu Nigam refused to comment on the ongoing protests by students. His response has sparked debate on social media with many film personalities supporting the students’ demands.
Recently, during a conversation with the media, when singer Sonu Nigam was asked about the ongoing protests by students regarding irregularities in the NEET exam, he looked quite irritated and refused to answer the questions of the journalists. A video of the conversation has since gone viral on social media, drawing mixed reactions online.
In the clip, a journalist asks Sonu about his views on the students’ protests, but the singer replies, “What have I come here for? Just…just…just (Why have I come here? That’s it… enough… enough).” As more questions arise, he cuts the conversation short and says, “that’s it now (It’s done now, that’s all).” Although the exact time and place of the conversation are unclear, the video has attracted both criticism and support online.
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A section of social media users criticized the singer for refusing to respond at a time when several actors and musicians have publicly supported the students’ demands. Some people questioned why public figures remain silent on issues affecting young people, while others accused celebrities of avoiding sensitive topics. One user described Sonu’s response as “shameful”, while another post called him “spineless” and said that celebrities often stay away from causes that do not directly benefit them.
At the same time, many others defended Sonu, saying that no public figure should be forced to comment on every political or social issue. Many users said that not responding is also a personal decision, with one suggesting that the singer may be cautious due to the controversies he has faced in the past. One post said, “If Sonu Nigam doesn’t want to talk about it, that’s fine. If he changes his mind later, that’s fine too. His choice. His decision to talk or not. It’s extremely unfair for the media and social media to troll stars or celebs who don’t want to discuss the issue.”
So far, Sonu has not posted any statement on his social media account regarding the protests or criticism over the viral clip. The debate over his response comes as several members of the entertainment industry have publicly expressed solidarity with students participating in the nationwide movement. Actors including Salman Khan, Kamal Haasan, Naseeruddin Shah, Anupam Kher, Sonakshi Sinha, Riteish Deshmukh, Alia Bhatt and Aditi Rao Hydari have shared messages supporting students’ right to accountability and reform.
Earlier this week, Shabana Azmi, Prakash Raj and rapper Hanumankind joined the Chalo Sansad march in New Delhi. Huma Qureshi, Saqib Saleem, Imran Khan, Ayesha Khan and Shalini Pandey took part in the protest in Mumbai. Other Bollywood celebrities including Alia Bhatt and R Madhavan expressed support later than others and faced backlash for the same.
The student movement that started over irregularities in the NEET exam has spread to many cities. The protesters are demanding education reforms, accountability and resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.