Kiren Rijiju criticizes Naseeruddin Shah over ‘Dimagi Naxal’ remarks

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has condemned veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah, labeling him a “dangerous urban Dimagi Naxal” and stating his views are “extremely harmful” to Indian democracy. The controversy follows a video released by Shah in which he expressed support for students protesting at Jamia Millia Islamia for the restoration of their student union.

In the video, Shah wore a badge inscribed with “Dimagi Naxal”—a term previously used by Prime Minister Narendra Modi—and criticized the central government for allegedly attempting to undermine the education system and the courage of the country’s youth. He also referenced previous student-related controversies at Jawaharlal Nehru University and the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute.

The remarks have drawn diverse reactions. While some political figures and actors, such as Puneet Issar, criticized Shah for selective criticism, CPI(M) leader Hannan Mollah defended the actor, accusing Rijiju of lacking an understanding of democratic rights and the Constitution.