Salman Khan shares cryptic message amid backlash over CJP protest remarks

Salman Khan has once again found himself at the centre of online discussion after posting a cryptic message that many believe is directed at those criticising him over his remarks on the ongoing NEET paper leak protests.

The controversy began when Salman voiced his support for the protesting students on Instagram, while also urging them to return home following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's assurance of strict action against those responsible for the alleged paper leak.

Tap Here to Add The Daily Star As A Trusted Source

Although the actor did not name anyone in his post, social media users were quick to interpret it as a response to the backlash he has faced over the past two days.

Sharing a series of photos from his workout session, the actor wrote, "Salman Khan darrrrr gaya…. Hmmmm. Jo darr gaya vo mar gaya…" (Salman Khan got scaaared... Hmmmm. The one who is afraid is as good as dead)

A day earlier, Salman had appealed to activist Sonam Wangchuk through a social media post, urging him to end his fast. He wrote, "The students are the top priority, educationally and security-wise, so they need not worry or have their parents worried for them. The Hon'ble Prime Minister has tweeted, and I am sure he will take strict action against all those responsible for this leak. So students, please go back to your parents and homes.”

Salman also made a personal appeal to activist Sonam Wangchuk, writing, "Sonam, it's done, bro. Don't extend this. Keep the spirit for another day if there be a need, which I doubt, and eat something. If you want, I'll send you food from home."

Just a few hours later, Wangchuk ended his fast while receiving treatment at a hospital. Despite this, the CJP-led protests have continued, with students maintaining their demand for stricter reforms in the education system.

Salman's remarks quickly gained traction on social media, triggering mixed reactions from users. While some praised the actor for speaking out, many others responded with sarcasm and criticism. One user wrote, "And if you need some books to read, let me know, I'll send you." Another commented, "Not the plot twist I was expecting." Several others taunted him by saying, "You are scared," while another quipped, "Camera ke saamne sher, system ke saamne…?"

Two days earlier, Salman had posted a childhood photograph while expressing solidarity with the protesting students. Describing the alleged paper leak as a "very serious issue," he commended the students for demonstrating peacefully and said he was proud to see young people standing up for a stronger and more accountable education system.

The actor further appealed to students to ensure that the movement did not become politicised, stressing that the matter should remain focused on students and the education system. He also voiced confidence that the government would respond to their concerns and expressed hope that India would one day emerge as a global hub for education.

Read more

‘Not one word of empathy’: Dia Mirza questions Indian PM’s response to student protests

The demonstrations at Jantar Mantar are still ongoing, despite activist Sonam Wangchuk ending his 26-day hunger strike after meeting BJP president JP Nadda, who assured him that the demands for education reforms would be taken up. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a video vowing the toughest possible action against those responsible for the paper leak, including the establishment of fast-track courts.