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Actor Riteish Deshmukh has expressed solidarity with student protesters participating in the nationwide movement led by education reformer Sonam Wangchuk and the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), urging the government to engage with young people through dialogue instead of force. His statement came after Delhi Police cracked down on demonstrators during the “Sansad Chalo” march in the national capital, an incident that has drawn widespread criticism from several public figures.

Taking to social media, Riteish appealed to the authorities to hear the concerns of the country’s youth. Stressing that students deserve to be heard without fear, the actor said governments become stronger when they empower young voices rather than silence them. He also called for peaceful engagement with protesters and urged decision-makers to address the issues raised by students instead of allowing tensions to escalate.

Genelia Deshmukh also shared a message supporting the students, echoing her husband’s call for empathy and constructive dialogue. The couple’s statements quickly gained traction online, with many social media users praising them for speaking out on an issue affecting millions of young people across the country. Others described their appeal as a reminder of the importance of democratic engagement and peaceful protest.

The protests have gathered momentum in recent weeks following allegations of irregularities in competitive examinations, including the NEET paper leak controversy. Sonam Wangchuk, who began an indefinite hunger strike in support of the students, has demanded accountability within the education system and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. His fast and subsequent hospitalisation have transformed the movement into one of the country’s most closely watched public campaigns.

On Monday, thousands of students and supporters attempted to march towards Parliament under the CJP’s “Sansad Chalo” campaign. Police used barricades, batons and tear gas to stop demonstrators from advancing, leading to clashes in several parts of Delhi. The police action prompted sharp reactions from opposition leaders, activists and members of the entertainment industry, many of whom questioned the use of force against peaceful protesters.

Riteish’s statement adds to a growing list of celebrities who have publicly voiced support for Wangchuk and the students. In recent days, actors including Vishal Dadlani, Prakash Raj, Aamir Khan, Imran Khan, Shekhar Suman, Kavita Kaushik and Aditi Rao Hydari have appealed for dialogue, expressed concern over Wangchuk’s health or criticised the handling of the protests. Their comments have helped amplify the conversation surrounding examination reforms and student welfare.

The CJP movement has evolved beyond demands to examination irregularities. Protesters are seeking broader reforms in the education system, greater transparency in recruitment and competitive examinations, and accountability from those responsible for alleged lapses. Demonstrations in support of the campaign have also been reported from several cities outside Delhi, reflecting growing public participation.

Meanwhile, authorities have maintained that necessary measures were taken to preserve law and order during the march. Sonam Wangchuk, who was shifted to hospital after nearly three weeks of fasting, remains a central figure in the movement. Despite his hospitalisation, CJP leaders have announced that the agitation will continue until their demands are addressed.

As debate over the protests continues, Riteish Deshmukh’s appeal has added another influential voice to calls for dialogue over confrontation. His message, centred on listening to young people and empowering them through meaningful engagement, has resonated widely online, underscoring the growing support from the film industry for the student-led movement.