CHENNAI: Actor Jyotika has thrown her weight behind the nationwide protests against the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), extending solidarity to students demanding reforms in the medical entrance examination system and calling for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
The actor voiced her support through a post on Instagram as demonstrations against NEET continued in several parts of the country. Student organisations, youth groups and political activists have intensified their campaign in recent days, alleging serious irregularities in the conduct of the examination and demanding greater accountability from the Union government.
The protests gathered momentum following the ‘Sansad Chalo’ march held in New Delhi earlier this week. Thousands of students and supporters of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) participated in the march towards Parliament, demanding a transparent investigation into the alleged question paper leak and other examination-related controversies.
The protest witnessed heavy police deployment, and several demonstrators, including opposition leaders, were detained while attempting to reach Parliament. The police action has since drawn criticism from political leaders, education activists and members of the film fraternity.
In Tamil Nadu, where opposition to NEET has remained strong for several years, student unions and various organisations have continued to stage demonstrations, reiterating their demand for the scrapping of the examination. The movement has also received support from several public figures who have expressed concern over the impact of the examination on students.
In her social media post, Jyotika appealed directly to the Union Education Minister, writing, “Dharmendra Pradhan, step down; resign. I stand with the students and the future of our nation, committed to a democratic India and educational reform.” She also praised the younger generation for raising its voice on issues concerning education and democratic values.
“To the Gen-Z generation—uninhibited and transparent—we are proud of you,” she wrote. The actor further acknowledged the role played by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) in mobilising the protests, stating that the movement had highlighted the strength of collective action.
Jyotika also mentioned education reform activist Sonam Wangchuk and CJP leaders Abhijit Dipke and Saurav Das, describing them as inspiring role models for young people. “As mothers, we wish to raise our children to be like you. Thank you, CJP, for making us fearless,” she wrote.
Her statement adds to the growing chorus of voices from politicians, actors, educationists and civil society groups who are demanding reforms to the NEET examination system and greater transparency in its administration.
