Pakistani celebrities, including television host Maya Khan, actors Azfar Rehman and Bilal Qureshi, and rapper Talha Anjum, have publicly expressed support for student protesters in India as demonstrations over alleged examination paper leaks continue across the country.
The celebrities used their social media platforms to voice solidarity with students calling for greater transparency and accountability in India’s education system. Azfar Rehman shared a video that purportedly showed police action against protesters, criticizing what he described as the treatment of students by authorities. “Shame on the Indian police and government for such insensitive and inhumane behaviour towards students. It’s really sad how these kids are being insulted and beaten up,” he wrote.
Maya Khan praised the student movement, describing today’s youth as “well-informed” and saying she stood with the students regardless of nationality. Bilal Qureshi also expressed his support, writing, “I can feel the pain of this generation, here and there.” Meanwhile, Talha Anjum shared an Instagram Story addressed to the protesters, saying, “To the student protesters in India, I have so much respect for your resilience. I understand your frustration. I understand what they’re trying to do to you. Stay strong.”
Their messages come as the student-led movement in India continues to gain momentum. The protests began following allegations of irregularities and examination paper leaks in the 2026 National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), one of India’s most competitive entrance examinations for medical colleges. Since then, the demonstrations have evolved into a broader campaign demanding greater transparency, accountability and reforms to India’s examination system.
Students have gathered in several cities, including New Delhi, where protests have drawn national attention. While many demonstrations have remained peaceful, clashes have also been reported in some areas, prompting widespread discussion about the handling of the protests and increasing public support for the students’ demands.
As the movement expanded, several Indian celebrities also voiced their support. Actors including Sonu Sood, Vir Das, Dia Mirza, Soha Ali Khan, Riteish Deshmukh, Genelia Deshmukh, Hrithik Roshan, Shahid Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, Sara Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Varun Dhawan shared messages backing calls for a fair and transparent examination process.
The cross-border support reflects how concerns surrounding education and students’ rights resonate beyond national boundaries. Competitive entrance examinations play a significant role in shaping the academic and professional futures of millions of students across South Asia, making public confidence in these systems especially important.
The protests have also sparked discussion about the role of celebrities in social movements. While many social media users welcomed public figures for amplifying students’ concerns, others questioned why some celebrities spoke out only after the demonstrations had gained widespread attention. Nevertheless, the focus of the movement has remained on education reform and institutional accountability.
Students continue to demand stronger safeguards against examination irregularities, greater transparency in the administration of competitive tests and measures to restore trust in the education system. Supporters argue that reforms are essential to ensure that students can compete on a fair and credible platform.
As demonstrations continue, the growing support from public figures in both India and Pakistan has added an international dimension to the conversation. Although the celebrities come from different countries and backgrounds, their statements have consistently emphasized the importance of fairness, transparency and equal opportunity in education, underscoring the broader significance of the ongoing student movement.
