Cinema VinesAfter a wave of criticism from students at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) for his silence on the NEET exam paper leak, actor and FTII chairman R Madhavan has spoken out, expressing solidarity with the protesting youth and calling for accountability from the authorities.
Madhavan posted a series of Instagram Stories in which he voiced his concern for the students and parents affected by the alleged leak. He wrote that an education system must inspire confidence, fairness and opportunity, and that incidents like paper leaks erode trust and jeopardise the hopes of countless young people in a country where education is a defining factor of life.
In his message he urged the government to bring those responsible to justice swiftly and decisively, saying, “Let the consequences be so firm and unambiguous that no one ever dares to jeopardise the future of our youth again.” He added that he has faith in the government’s ability to strengthen the system and safeguard the integrity of education for future generations.
While praising the determination of the students, Madhavan cautioned them to stay vigilant against vested interests that might hijack the movement. “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,” he said.
The actor’s silence had drawn mockery from FTII students, who posted a meme on his cabin door that read “NEET for Sale” and a “Gayab” sticker. The protest, which began with a 26‑day hunger strike by activist Sonam Wangchuk demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, has seen students across Delhi demanding reforms after the alleged NEET paper leak.
