Veteran actor Shabana Azmi joined a demonstration by the Cockroach Janta Party at Jantar Mantar on Sunday to back calls for education changes and answers on reported exam issues, one day before a planned march to Parliament.
Azmi arrived at the site in the evening, adding to several public figures who showed support. Actor Prakash Raj, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat and AAP leader Manish Sisodia also visited during the day.
Speaking to the crowd, Azmi said she supported the students as their issues needed attention. She noted that in a democracy people can voice concerns calmly and called on officials to talk rather than clash.
Azmi also met All India Students’ Association president Neha Bora, who is on an indefinite hunger strike with two others on day 22. She greeted the students and offered encouragement.
In a post on X, Neha thanked Azmi for her backing.
Actor Prakash Raj led chants targeting Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and drew cheers from the crowd.
Attendance rose on Sunday ahead of the planned march on the first day of the monsoon session. Organizers said around 20,000 people were present, though this could not be confirmed.
The protest began on June 20 and seeks the minister’s resignation over alleged NEET problems, exam system changes and justice for students.
On Saturday police moved activist Sonam Wangchuk from the site to Safdarjung Hospital under court orders due to his health.
Wangchuk’s wife Gitanjali Angmo said he would stop fasting on Monday if leaders visit him and promise to raise education accountability in Parliament. She asked supporters to keep the march peaceful.
CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, now on hunger strike, urged people to stay overnight to maintain the protest.
Delhi Police stated no permission was given for the march and prohibitory orders remain in place. Extra security has been deployed around Parliament and Jantar Mantar.
