PTC Web Desk: Bollywood actor Bhumi Pednekar has found herself at the centre of an online controversy after reacting to the language allegedly used against Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the ongoing NEET UG 2026 protests at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. While the actor appealed to young people to express their opinions respectfully, many social media users criticised her for not speaking about the alleged police action on protesting students.

The debate quickly gained momentum online, with several users accusing the actor of highlighting one aspect of the protest while remaining silent on the violence that allegedly took place during the students' Parliament march.

Bhumi Pednekar appeals for respectful language

Bhumi Pednekar shared a video on Instagram expressing concern over the language heard in some viral videos related to the protest.

In the video, she said that people should maintain dignity while expressing disagreement and avoid using abusive words against someone holding a constitutional office such as the Prime Minister.

She also stressed that respectful conversations are essential for a healthy democracy. Referring to family values and social responsibility, the actor said that meaningful discussions become difficult when public discourse is dominated by offensive language.

Bhumi further urged people to focus on important issues such as education, women's safety and national unity while maintaining civility in public conversations.

Netizens question her silence on police action

Soon after the video was posted, Bhumi faced strong criticism across social media platforms. Many users questioned why she chose to comment on the language used during the protests but did not react to the alleged police action against students during the Parliament march on July 20.

Several users accused the actor of taking a selective stand. One user wrote that condemning abusive language while remaining silent on the alleged assault on students reflected a "selective approach." Another commented that it was easy to preach from a comfortable position without addressing the hardships faced by the protesters.

Some users also questioned whether celebrities should speak equally on issues related to both public conduct and alleged violence during demonstrations.

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The controversy is linked to the nationwide protests over the alleged NEET UG 2026 paper leak. Thousands of students gathered at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi under the banner of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), demanding reforms in the examination system and accountability over the paper leak issue. Protesters also sought the resignation of the Education Minister, and demonstrations reportedly continued even after Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.

On July 20, a group of protesters attempted to march towards Parliament. According to reports,  the police used lathicharge and tear gas to disperse the crowd. Videos circulating on social media appeared to show clashes between police personnel and protesters, triggering widespread debate online.

Reports also suggested that FIRs were registered against some protesters in different states following the demonstrations.