From Shabana Azmi to Prakash Raj: Stars Back CJP’s Student Protest in Delhi

Prominent actors, artists, and public figures have stepped into the spotlight to express solidarity with the ongoing agitation organized by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar. The movement, which has been gaining significant momentum since early June, centers on student rights, accountability for alleged national exam irregularities (including the NEET examination), and calls for systemic educational reforms.

The movement reached a crucial turning point ahead of the proposed ‘Chalo Sansad’ march to Parliament. Prominent personalities have extended support—both by physically arriving at the ground zero of the protest and by broadcasting solidarity messages across social media.

Physical Presence on the Ground

Several prominent cultural and political voices arrived at Jantar Mantar to stand alongside student demonstrators and activist groups:

• Shabana Azmi: The veteran actress arrived at the protest venue ahead of the march to interact with demonstrators. In viral clips, Azmi was seen holding hands and sitting beside young protesters who were on hunger strikes. Joining the ‘Chalo Sansad’ march, she emphasized the constitutional right to non-violent protest, invoking Gandhian principles of peaceful assembly. When questioned by reporters regarding the presence—or absence—of broader Bollywood figures, Azmi urged the press to focus on student demands rather than celebrity spectacle.

• Prakash Raj: A long-time vocal critic and actor-filmmaker, Prakash Raj joined demonstrators at Jantar Mantar, staying with the youth at the site and releasing a social media video captioned with his signature hashtag #JustAsking. He reiterated that he was standing firmly with the young generation fighting for transparency and accountability.

• Swara Bhasker & Kunal Kamra: Both the actor and comedian arrived at the agitation site to offer on-ground support, voicing their backing for the demands put forth by the CJP and student bodies.

Digital Statements & Online Solidarity

Beyond those present in New Delhi, a wider circle from the film fraternity used digital platforms to amplify the demonstrators’ message and advocate for non-violence:

“Every citizen has the right to question, and when people do so without violence, they deserve to be heard. I stand with the youth, the Constitution, the students, and the nation.”

— Sonakshi Sinha via Instagram Stories, sharing the movement’s peaceful rally roadmap.

• Voices for Peace and Youth: Actors such as Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Zeenat Aman, Abhay Deol, Soni Razdan, and Omi Vaidya issued statements or endorsed posts urging authorities to engage in constructive dialogue with student leaders. They repeatedly called for maintaining peace and ensuring student safety during public gatherings.

Key Catalysts Behind the Surge in Support

The wave of celebrity engagement escalated following two major catalysts:

1. Sonam Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike & Hospitalization: Activist Sonam Wangchuk went on an indefinite fast in solidarity with the students. His forcible removal from the protest site to Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital by police due to health concerns triggered strong reactions from public figures, who publicly expressed concern over his condition and urged a diplomatic resolution.

2. The ‘Chalo Sansad’ Call: Scheduled to coincide with the opening of Parliament’s Monsoon Session, the CJP’s call for a march to Parliament drew heightened police security and increased public visibility, drawing figures like Shabana Azmi to the frontline to advocate for a peaceful march.

Public Reaction & Media Focus

While celebrity involvement brought mainstream visibility to the CJP movement, it also ignited debate. Protesters on the ground expressed mixed feelings—appreciating those who physically showed up while questioning why more mainstream figures remained silent. Nevertheless, the presence of veteran actors added weight to the students’ message as security forces imposed strict measures around central Delhi during the Parliamentary session.

Written by Simran

Simran is currently working as a Senior Content Writer at Findmycollege , where she creates engaging and research-driven learning resources for students. She has completed her Graduation in Journalism from Delhi University. With 4 years of experience in the EdTech industry, she has previously contributed to leading platforms like Leverage Edu and Aakash. Her expertise lies in simplifying Engineering and Medical entrance exam content to guide aspirants in their preparation journey. Beyond writing, Simran enjoys sketching, watching movies, and finding creative inspiration in everyday life.

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