Lyricist-poet Manoj Muntashir backed the students' concerns over the alleged NEET paper leak but refused to join the CJP-led demonstration at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar.

He said he is staying away because individuals he associated with the "Bharat tere tukde honge (India will be shattered into pieces)" ideology are leading the protest.

Muntashir, in an interview with Times Now, mentioned that he would never go to Jantar Mantar because he did not want to stand with the people who, according to him, are representing the protest at the site. He said, "The youth of this country deserve better than Cockroach Janta Party."

Muntashir highlighted the NEET paper leak was indefensible and that there had to be accountability. He also emphasised that if even one child had lost their lives because of the leak, the entire system must be held answerable.

Explaining his objection to the Jantar Mantar protest, Muntashir pointed out that after listening to the speeches and observing the attendees, he simply did not want to be associated with them.

Muntashir went on to label those present at the rally as "traitors." He highlighted that the crowd included people known for past anti-national chants, questioning Kashmir's place in India, and insulting Lord Ram.

The lyricist asserted that he could never stand alongside those pushing a divisive narrative, calling them part of "Bharat tere tukde honge" gang.

Several film personalities have publicly backed the student protest and expressed solidarity on social media. Those named in support of the cause include actors Sonu Sood, Vir Das, Dia Mirza, Soha Ali Khan, Aditi Rao Hydari, Rohit Saraf, Aayush Sharma, Prakash Raj and Imran Khan.

Prominent names including actors Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh, Bhumi Pednekar, Huma Qureshi, Preity Zinta, Nandita Das, Shabana Azmi, Sutapa Sikdar, and Diljit Dosanjh have also rallied behind the youth-led CJP protest.

Together, the celebrities extended their support to the students' key demands. They urged greater transparency in the examination system, accountability for alleged irregularities, and a peaceful resolution to the protests.

- Ends

Published By:

Anurag Bohra

Published On:

Jul 22, 2026 12:45 IST