National/Alive News: Minister Kiren Rijiju has criticised actor Naseeruddin Shah for describing himself as a “dimagi Naxal”, saying he had previously regarded him only as an actor and was unaware of his views.
Speaking to the media in Delhi on Thursday, Rijiju said he had considered Shah a good and decent actor but had now learnt about his views. On Wednesday, Rijiju had also described the actor as a “dangerous urban dimagi Naxal” in a post on X.
What did Naseeruddin Shah say?
Shah shared a video on Facebook on Tuesday in which he called himself a “dimagi Naxal”. He said people expressing dissent had been labelled anti-national and members of the “tukde-tukde gang”.
“If there is a ‘tukde-tukde gang’ in this country, it is this illegitimate government,” Shah said, criticising what he described as attempts to weaken young people, undermine educational institutions and endanger democracy.
He referred to protests and alleged action against students at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) and Jamia Millia Islamia. He also criticised the media and the BJP IT cell, expressing solidarity with the country’s youth.
Political and film personalities react
Film producer Ashok Pandit criticised Shah’s remarks, alleging that they reflected frustration and insecurity. Union Minister Ramdas Athawale acknowledged Shah’s contribution to cinema but said his views should not reflect a Naxalite mindset.
BJP spokesperson RP Singh also criticised the actor, alleging that his statements promoted a mindset capable of creating unrest.
Meanwhile, Trinamool Congress MP Saugata Roy defended Shah, saying he was entitled to express his personal views. Congress Rajya Sabha MP J.B. Mather alleged that the BJP frequently labels government critics as members of the “tukde-tukde gang” or “urban Naxals”.
Earlier criticism over SRFTI
Shah had previously raised concerns about students at SRFTI, alleging that those questioning the administration faced show-cause notices, surveillance and threats, and were asked to vacate their hostel. He accused the BJP of promoting propaganda and intimidating ideological opponents.
