Extremely harmful to Indian democracy: Rijiju slams Naseeruddin Shah's 'dimagi naxal' video
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has publicly criticized actor Naseeruddin Shah, labeling him a 'dangerous urban dimagi naxal' after the actor supported student protests at Jamia Millia Islamia. The controversy centers on Shah's accusations that the government is undermining the education system.
Why it matters
This highlights the growing polarization in Indian public discourse regarding dissent, government policy, and the labeling of critics.
New Delhi Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has said Naseeruddin Shah is a "dangerous urban dimagi naxal" whose views are "extremely harmful" to Indian democracy, after the actor posted a video accusing the Centre of trying to destroy the education system. In a post on X on Wednesday (October 28, 2026), the Minister for minority affairs said he used to respect Mr. Shah, but came to know of his "real character" very late. ‘I'm Dimagi naxal and declare it proudly’: Naseeruddin Shah now backs Jamia students with new video ‘I'm Dimagi naxal and declare it proudly’: Naseeruddin Shah now backs Jamia students with new video Last week, Naseeruddin Shah had also come out in support of the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute students who have staged an indefinite sit-in over violent incidents on the campus ‘I'm Dimagi naxal and declare it proudly’: Naseeruddin Shah now backs Jamia students with new…
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