MUMBAI: Actor, model and social media influencer Rayya Labib has announced that she will participate in the ongoing student protests in Mumbai (or Delhi) beginning Thursday, expressing solidarity with students who have been demonstrating across the country over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and broader concerns about the education system.
Speaking to reporters in Mumbai on Wednesday evening, Labib said she was extending her support to students who have been demanding greater transparency, accountability and fairness in India’s examination process. She also expressed support for activist Sonam Wangchuk and his campaign, stating that young people deserve to have their voices heard.
“Students represent the future of our country. Their concerns should be listened to with seriousness, and meaningful efforts should be made to address their grievances,” Labib said.
Student demonstrations have gained momentum in several parts of India following controversies surrounding competitive entrance examinations, including allegations of question paper leaks, cancelled examinations and administrative lapses. The protests have drawn participation from various student organizations and youth groups, with demonstrators calling for reforms to ensure greater integrity in the examination system.
The movement intensified after concerns emerged over the conduct of the NEET medical entrance examination, one of India’s most competitive tests. The controversy led to widespread anxiety among students and their families, with protesters demanding an independent investigation, stronger safeguards against malpractice and comprehensive reforms in the country’s examination framework.
According to Labib, the protests reflect growing frustration among students who believe the existing system has failed to protect their interests. She said the issue extends beyond a single examination and represents a larger demand for fairness and equal opportunity in higher education.
Commenting on recent demonstrations in New Delhi, Labib criticized the authorities’ handling of student protesters. She alleged that excessive force had been used to disperse demonstrators and expressed concern over reports that women students were also affected during police action.
“No student should be afraid to express legitimate concerns peacefully,” she said. “When young people gather to seek justice and accountability, the response should be dialogue rather than confrontation.”
Rayya also questioned the decision to prevent demonstrators from proceeding with their proposed march towards Parliament. She argued that the students’ demands could have been addressed through discussions with elected representatives and government officials.
“The students were seeking an opportunity to present their concerns. Constructive engagement would have been a more effective way to address the situation,” she said. “Open communication between the government and student representatives is essential in a democracy.”
The actress urged policymakers to initiate discussions with student leaders and work towards practical solutions that restore confidence in the country’s education system. She maintained that ensuring transparent and credible examination processes would benefit both students and educational institutions.
Rayya, who made her acting debut in the Bollywood film Lakme, has built a following of fans as a model and digital influencer in addition to her work in cinema. Her announcement is expected to draw additional public attention to the ongoing student movement, as protests continue in several cities with participants calling for exam reforms, institutional accountability and greater transparency in the administration of higher education.