Shabana Azmi backs CJP’s Mumbai protest; says, “We don’t have to tolerate anything wrong”
Here's the latest update from the Bollywood world:
In conversation with reporters before taking the stage, Shabana highlighted the importance of voting rights and shared that any attempt to take away that right should be met through democratic means. She shared, “Voting is our right. If anyone tries to take away our right to vote, we will do what is necessary through democratic means.”
Adding to this, Addressing the gathering later, the star spoke about the importance of citizens raising their voices when their names are removed from electoral rolls. She shared, “A very, very warm greeting to all of you. Since I am from Mumbai, seeing all of you present here in such large numbers brings me immense happiness.”
Meanwhile, “Our vote is our right, it is our voice, we have been hearing this since childhood. But when our right is snatched away from us, when our names are removed from the electoral rolls, what will we do? We will protest. This is our right. Today, look around and see how far your eyes can reach, this is the victory of democracy. Because we have recognised our own strength, and we have realised that we do not have to tolerate anything wrong, because this is our country, our Constitution has given us this right. So, many congratulations to all of you,” she added.
Notably, The CJP has been opposing the SIR exercise and has been calling for Gyanesh Kumar to step down as Chief Election Commissioner. The organisation held the Mumbai gathering despite Mumbai Police denying permission for the protest. Heavy police deployment and barricades were put in place around Shivaji Park as a large crowd gathered at the venue. Reports on the size of the gathering varied, with police estimates later putting the number in the thousands.
As per the latest buzz, Naseeruddin Shah was also present at the protest and met CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke. A video shared by Dipke showed the two embracing. During their interaction, Shah told him, “I want to thank you,” while Dipke responded that he was a huge fan of the veteran star. Shah then shared, “I knew you were here. I am a huge fan of yours. Whatever you are doing, please continue doing that.”
In further updates, Vishal Dadlani and Vishal Bhardwaj were among the other movie personalities seen at the gathering. Star Prakash Raj also extended his support through a video message, speaking about democracy, citizenship and the ongoing SIR row.
On top of that, Meanwhile, Shabana’s husband and lyricist Javed Akhtar reacted to criticism over the protest and concerns about noise pollution at Shivaji Park. In a post on X, he questioned whether similar objections would be raised when political parties hold rallies at the same venue.
The CJP has maintained that its agitation is independent and has shared it will not join the Opposition’s separate October 6 protest against the Election Commission.
Source: Bollywood Hungama