Actress Isha Koppikar has spoken about the ongoing student protests, urging people to focus on the core issues affecting students rather than getting influenced by social media debates and online reactions.
In a video message shared on social media, Isha emphasised the importance of responsible dialogue in a democracy and said citizens have the right to question those in power, but personal attacks and abusive language do not contribute to meaningful discussions.
She said that if students are genuinely concerned, the focus should remain on issues such as their future, stress levels and the challenges faced by their families.
The actress also cautioned against using the term “dictatorship” casually while discussing political disagreements, saying that words carry responsibility and should be used with understanding.
According to Isha, democracy includes both freedom of expression and responsibility in exercising that freedom. She added that citizens can criticise governments, hold different opinions and also acknowledge positive work when it is done.
“Real courage is not in trending hashtags, but in staying on the real topic,” she said, calling for discussions based on facts, dignity and democratic values.
Isha also appealed to parents to educate children not only academically but also about civic responsibilities, the difference between democracy and dictatorship, and the importance of respectful communication.
Her remarks come amid ongoing protests by students in Delhi and other parts of the country over examination-related issues.