Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has once again made headlines for his outspoken views on political and social issues. In a video shared on his official Facebook page on October 28, 2026, the acclaimed actor criticised the government over student protests and described himself as a “Dimagi Naxal”, a label he said he was willing to accept with pride.
His remarks have triggered fresh discussion on social media, bringing questions about political dissent, student activism and the role of public figures in raising their voices on controversial issues back into focus.
The actor's comments came amid protests at Jamia Millia Islamia in Delhi, where students have been demanding the restoration of student union elections. Shah also referred to earlier student protests at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) in Kolkata.
Naseeruddin Shah's ‘Dimagi Naxal’ Remark
In the video, Shah responded to labels such as “anti-national” and “tukde-tukde gang” that are often used in political debates against people accused of opposing the government's position.
“I say with pride, I am a Dimagi Naxal,” the actor said, using the phrase sarcastically to challenge the way critics of the government are characterised.
He went on to question the government's approach to people who disagree with its policies. Shah also made a provocative remark about the “tukde-tukde gang”, turning the expression back on the ruling establishment.
The statement quickly attracted attention because of the actor's prominence and his long history of speaking publicly about political and social questions.
His comments represent his personal political views and allegations. They should not be confused with an independently established finding about the government or the student protests.
Why Shah Spoke About Student Protests
A key focus of Shah's video was the situation involving students at Jamia Millia Islamia. The ongoing protest centres on demands to restore student union elections, which have not been held since the university's student union was dissolved in 2006.
The protests have also involved concerns about disciplinary action and the university administration's response to student demands. Some demonstrators have reportedly undertaken a hunger strike to press their case.
Shah questioned what he described as attempts to weaken the confidence of young people and undermine educational institutions. He argued that the treatment of students at different institutions should not be ignored.
The actor referred to JNU, SRFTI and Jamia while warning that the events surrounding the protests would be remembered.
His intervention has added a prominent film-industry voice to a debate already involving students, university authorities and political groups.
SRFTI Controversy Also Draws His Attention
Shah had previously expressed support for students protesting at the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute in Kolkata. The dispute there intensified following a reported clash on campus in September 2026 and subsequent disagreements between students and the administration.
Students raised concerns about campus safety, alleged violence and disciplinary action, while the administration and other parties have presented their own positions regarding the dispute.
Shah criticised what he viewed as attempts to intimidate young filmmakers and urged people to support the students. His latest video connects that controversy with his broader concerns about the treatment of student movements.
However, the situations at Jamia and SRFTI involve different demands and circumstances. Each dispute needs to be assessed on its own facts rather than treated as a single issue.
Naseeruddin Shah's History of Speaking Out
Naseeruddin Shah has frequently expressed opinions on political, social and cultural issues throughout his career. His public statements have at times attracted strong reactions from both supporters and critics.
As one of Hindi cinema's most respected actors, his comments often receive attention beyond the entertainment industry. His latest remarks demonstrate how public figures can use their platforms to draw attention to student activism and disagreements over government policy.
At the same time, such statements can intensify political debate, particularly when they involve sharp language directed at those in power.
A Wider Debate Over Dissent and Freedom of Expression
Shah's video has once again brought the relationship between dissent and democracy into public discussion. Student protests, criticism of government policies and demands for accountability are recurring features of political life, although disagreements remain over the methods used by protesters and the responses of authorities.
The actor's intervention has drawn attention to questions about how educational institutions should handle student demands and how public criticism should be received in a democratic society.
As the protests continue to attract attention, the debate surrounding Shah's remarks is likely to remain connected to the larger discussion over student representation, freedom of expression and the role of prominent citizens in public affairs.
Click here for the latest news from Bollywood, Hollywood, South Film Industry, Bhojpuri and TV world… Click here to join the Facebook Page, Twitter Page, YouTube page, and Instagram of Bollywood Mascot!
Leave a Comment