A day after facing criticism over his silence on the alleged NEET-UG paper leak and the ongoing Cockroach Janata Party (CJP)-led protests, actor and Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) chairman R Madhavan has spoken out in support of the students, writes Hindustan Times.
Taking to Instagram Stories, Madhavan said he shared the concerns of students and parents, stressing that an education system must be built on fairness, trust and equal opportunity.
“As someone who has always believed in the limitless potential of India’s youth, I share the concern and disappointment felt by so many students and parents today.
An education system must inspire confidence, fairness, and opportunity.”
The actor said incidents such as examination paper leaks erode public trust and threaten the dreams of countless young people.
“Examination paper leaks undermine that trust and can deeply affect the hopes, hard work and dreams of countless young people and their families, especially in a country like India, where education plays such a defining role in shaping lives.”
Calling for strict action against those responsible, Madhavan urged the authorities to ensure accountability.
“I urge the government to ensure that every individual found responsible is brought to justice swiftly and decisively. Let the consequences be so firm and unambiguous that no one ever dares to jeopardise the future of our youth again.”
At the same time, the actor expressed confidence that the government would take corrective measures to strengthen the examination system.
“Having acknowledged lapses in the past regarding this incident, I have faith that our government will take the necessary corrective measures, strengthen the system, and safeguard the integrity of education for generations to come.”
Encouraging students not to lose hope, he concluded:
“Your talent, perseverance and character are far greater than the shortcomings of any system. Continue to work hard, believe in yourselves, and never allow temporary setbacks to define your future.”
Madhavan’s statement comes after students at FTII reportedly criticised him for remaining silent on the issue.
His remarks add to the growing list of film personalities commenting on the controversy.
Salman Khan, Alia Bhatt, Diljit Dosanjh, Imran Khan, Shabana Azmi, Prakash Raj, Riteish Deshmukh, Genelia Deshmukh, Sonu Sood, Vir Das and Dia Mirza have expressed support for the students, while Kangana Ranaut and Hema Malini have publicly backed the central government’s position.
