Row Erupts as Naseeruddin Shah Calls Himself Dimagi Naxal, Faces Flak From RijijuA major political controversy has erupted following remarks by veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah, who referred to himself as a "Dimagi Naxal" and part of the "tukde-tukde gang" in a self-released video clip on social media. In the clip, the actor challenged the authorities to take action against him.
Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju launched a sharp counterattack against the actor, stating that he used to respect him but never knew he was dangerous, remarking that it took time to uncover his true character. The row follows Shah's continuous backing of various student movements and demonstrations across the country, including those organised by groups at Jamia Millia Islamia and Jantar Mantar in Delhi, as well as student protests in Mumbai.
Rijiju's criticism has been echoed by leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party and voices from within the film fraternity, including actor Puneet Issar, who questioned Shah's controversial stance and statements.