Rijiju criticizes Shah over video backing Jamia students

Actor Naseeruddin Shah’s video supporting Jamia Millia Islamia students and describing himself as a “dimagi naxal” drew criticism from Union minister Kiren Rijiju, who called Shah’s views harmful to Indian democracy. In a Facebook video posted October 27, Shah said he proudly used the label and wore a badge bearing the phrase. He voiced support for students seeking restoration of the university’s student union and accused the central government of trying to undermine education and weaken young people’s resolve. Those accusations were Shah’s own claims and were not independently established in the reports. Rijiju responded in a post on X on October 28. He said he had previously respected Shah and described him as a “dangerous urban dimagi naxal,” adding that the actor’s views were harmful to Indian democracy. Rijiju’s characterization was his assessment of Shah’s remarks. Shah’s video challenged the government over its treatment of students and public institutions. He referred to Jawaharlal Nehru University, the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute and Jamia, and said the treatment of students would be remembered. He also objected to labels such as “anti-national” and...