Bollywood superstar Salman Khan posted on X to express his support for students protesting the NEET-UG 2026 paper-leak controversy [1].
The actor's involvement brings significant public attention to the demands of thousands of students seeking accountability and systemic education reforms in India. His warning against political interference highlights the tension between grassroots student activism and opportunistic party politics.
Students have gathered at Jantar Mantar in Delhi to protest the alleged leakage of the NEET-UG 2026 examination paper [1], [2]. The movement, which includes support for the CJP movement, demands a fair process for medical aspirants who believe their academic futures were compromised by the breach [2].
Khan addressed the nature of the demonstrations in his statement. "I am saddened that the peaceful protest had to take a violent turn," Khan said [1].
While acknowledging the scale of the movement, Khan emphasized that the focus must remain on the youth. He cautioned that political parties should not exploit the students' grievances for their own gain. Regarding the leadership of the movement, he said, "Credit should go only to the students" [2].
Other high-profile figures have also reacted to the unrest. Actor Alia Bhatt expressed her own sentiments regarding the situation, stating she was "heartbroken yet filled with hope" [3].
The protests at Jantar Mantar continue as students call for a transparent investigation into how the 2026 exam papers were leaked [1], [2].
“"Credit should go only to the students."”
The entry of major cultural icons like Salman Khan and Alia Bhatt into the NEET-UG 2026 controversy transforms a policy-driven academic dispute into a national social issue. By specifically warning against 'political hijacking,' Khan is attempting to insulate the students' demands from partisan narratives, suggesting that the credibility of the movement depends on it remaining student-led rather than becoming a tool for opposition or ruling party optics.
