Amid backlash, R Madhavan finally reacts to Jantar Mantar student protest, asks for fair and transparent education system; leaves internet unimpressed: 'I share the concern and disappointment felt'
ETimes | July 23, 2026 4:39 PM CST
R Madhavan recently faced backlash for staying silent on the Cockroach Janta Party-led student protest, which demands Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan 's resignation over the alleged NEET paper leak and wider education reforms. Several students from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) called out the chairman, with many mocking his silence using the "Gayab" meme.
R Madhavan finally shares a note on educationEarly today, Madhavan took to his social media handle to share a long note talking about education, writing, “Education has the power to shape the future of our nation, and every student deserves a system that is fair, transparent, and built on merit. 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. Incidents such as 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.”
“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 jeopardize the future of our youth again. 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. To every young person feeling anxious or disheartened today: please don't lose faith. 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 future”, he added.
“I admire the grit and determination of those who are peacefully asking for meaningful reforms. At the same time, I would urge everyone to remain vigilant against vested interests that may attempt to hijack your cause and divert it from its true purpose. I respect every citizen's right to express their views peacefully and responsibly. My way is to stand firmly with our youth, support meaningful reforms, and use my voice to encourage positive change. I have always respected, supported, and prayed for the good health and wisdom of those entrusted with serving our nation, believing that together we can build a stronger and brighter future for India. Jai Hind”, the actor concluded.
Netizens slam R Madhavan's noteMany users gathered in the comments section to vent their frustration and call out Madhavan over his note. One comment read, “Literally playing it so safe. Can't believe I idolized you as a teen”, while another remarked, “Well done PR”. “Not needed. Thank you”, one user wrote. “Maddy on behalf of Modi!,” another mocked, with someone else adding, “What a safe play.”
About the ongoing Jantar Mantar protest Since June 6, the CJP has been staging its protest at Jantar Mantar, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk also joined in, going on an indefinite hunger strike in solidarity with the protesters. On July 20, the movement saw protesters march towards Parliament as part of the Chalo Sansad campaign, which drew support from several public figures, including Shabana Azmi , Prakash Raj , Hanumankind, and Amol Parashar .
R Madhavan finally shares a note on educationEarly today, Madhavan took to his social media handle to share a long note talking about education, writing, “Education has the power to shape the future of our nation, and every student deserves a system that is fair, transparent, and built on merit. 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. Incidents such as 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.”
“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 jeopardize the future of our youth again. 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. To every young person feeling anxious or disheartened today: please don't lose faith. 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 future”, he added.
“I admire the grit and determination of those who are peacefully asking for meaningful reforms. At the same time, I would urge everyone to remain vigilant against vested interests that may attempt to hijack your cause and divert it from its true purpose. I respect every citizen's right to express their views peacefully and responsibly. My way is to stand firmly with our youth, support meaningful reforms, and use my voice to encourage positive change. I have always respected, supported, and prayed for the good health and wisdom of those entrusted with serving our nation, believing that together we can build a stronger and brighter future for India. Jai Hind”, the actor concluded.
Netizens slam R Madhavan's noteMany users gathered in the comments section to vent their frustration and call out Madhavan over his note. One comment read, “Literally playing it so safe. Can't believe I idolized you as a teen”, while another remarked, “Well done PR”. “Not needed. Thank you”, one user wrote. “Maddy on behalf of Modi!,” another mocked, with someone else adding, “What a safe play.”
About the ongoing Jantar Mantar protest Since June 6, the CJP has been staging its protest at Jantar Mantar, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk also joined in, going on an indefinite hunger strike in solidarity with the protesters. On July 20, the movement saw protesters march towards Parliament as part of the Chalo Sansad campaign, which drew support from several public figures, including Shabana Azmi , Prakash Raj , Hanumankind, and Amol Parashar .
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