“Gooda Nahi Hai Toh Chup Rehna Best Hai Behen”: Neha Bhasin Slams Bhumi Pednekar Over Comments on NEET Paper Leak Protesters
Singer Neha Bhasin has strongly criticised actor Bhumi Pednekar over her remarks about the language used by demonstrators during the CJP-led NEET paper leak protests. Bhumi's comments, which emphasised maintaining civility while expressing dissent, triggered a major debate online, with many questioning why she chose not to address allegations of police action against the protesters.
The controversy began after Bhumi shared a video on Instagram in which she expressed concern over the language used by some protesters while referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Stressing the need for respect and restraint, she said that people should avoid using abusive words, especially when speaking about someone occupying the country's highest office.
In the video, Bhumi said, "Looking at the videos surfacing now, the kind of language being used, and the way the youth of our country are speaking — the youth of our country... this isn't how we talk, man. We are talking about someone who holds the highest office in the land today. And it's not just about the office; would we ever speak like this to the elders in our own homes? Can we really resort to using abusive language?"
She also underlined the importance of preserving cultural values while discussing social and political issues.
"Guys, this isn't our culture; it's wrong, and this really bothered me — that's why I wanted to come forward and address this. A country will only progress and move forward when, collectively and unitedly, we discuss our flaws as well as the good things. Our culture and value system form our backbone, and we should not drift away from them," she added.
Bhumi's remarks, however, did not go down well with a section of social media users. Several people criticised the actor for focusing on the conduct of the protesters rather than speaking about the alleged use of force by police personnel during the July 20 Sansad March. ALSO READ: Kangana Ranaut Calls CJP Protest Videos 'Puke Inducing', Dubs Gen Z 'Generation Gutter'; Faces Backlash
Videos circulating on social media reportedly showed demonstrators being subjected to baton charges, tear gas and physical assault, leading to widespread criticism and demands for accountability.
Neha Bhasin also joined the discussion and questioned why the alleged misconduct by law enforcement officials had not received equal attention.
Sharing her views on social media, the singer wrote, "I would have really respected our dear PM more if there was calling out of police for openly, inappropriately touching women during the protests as he is offended by the use of gaalis. He himself said these are kids. But the police is appointed to protect and abide by the law. So why is there no accountability there?"
The singer then took a direct swipe at Bhumi Pednekar, writing, "Bhumi Pednekar Lock Upp pe bhi scripted thi aur protests ko lekar bhi. Gooda nahi hai toh chup rehna best hai behen."
Bhumi Pednekar recently appeared alongside Huma Qureshi as Janta Ki Awaz in the Judgment Day episode of Lock Upp, hosted by Farah Khan and Riteish Deshmukh.
The debate surrounding the protests continues to divide opinion online, with discussions centring on freedom of expression, public accountability and the conduct of both protesters and authorities. ALSO READ: Vir Das Slams Artists' Silence Over Student Protest, Takes Dig at Dhurandhar
