From Bol to Der Kar Deta Hun Mein...: How Student Protest Used Poetry
From Faiz to Munir Niyazi, poetry became the language of the NEET-UG protest, uniting students, activists, celebrities and opposition leaders.
By Pranjal Gupta
New Delhi, July 23: The ongoing protest over the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak has revived the language of poetry and couplets. In the latest instance, Thiruvananthapuram MP and senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi by quoting a classic couplet by Pakistani poet Munir Niyazi, suggesting that the Prime Minister's response to the controversy had come rather late.
"Humesha der kar deta hun mein har kaam karne mein, zaroori baat kehni ho, koi vaada nibhana ho," wrote Tharoor in a post on X, formerly Twitter. His reaction came after PM Modi announced that the Centre would set up fast-track courts to ensure swift punishment for those involved in the paper leak.
"Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth! We have decided to set up fast-track courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks. Have directed the concerned authorities and officials to take all necessary steps in this regard. This continues our series of steps for safeguarding the interests of students. Those who try to harm the future of our youth will not be spared," PM Modi said.
'Bol Ke Lab Azad Hain Tere'
Over the past month, India has witnessed a strong student-led protest across several states. A satire-driven, internet-born movement also spilled onto the streets of the national capital, with the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) organising a protest at Jantar Mantar, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
During this period, several Bollywood actors, activists and political leaders turned to Urdu, Hindi and Punjabi poetry to draw the government's attention to the recurring irregularities in major competitive examinations taken by thousands of students.
Actor Shabana Azmi recited Bol Ke Lab Azaad Hain Tere ("Speak, for your lips are free"), the iconic poem by Pakistani poet Faiz Ahmad Faiz. Lyricist Swanand Kirkire recited Maila Chawal, Sadi Dal by poet Suryakumar Pandey.
Actor Atul Kulkarni recited Kya Ghar Ja Kar Tu Roya Kal? by contemporary Urdu poet Tehzeeb Hafi.
Actor Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub recited Yadi Tumhare Ek Kamre Mein by celebrated poet, playwright and journalist Sarveshwar Dayal Saxena.
Sonam Wangchuk Strike Enters Day 26
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk began his indefinite hunger strike on June 28 and remained on fast even on the 26th day of his protest. Several political leaders, activists, Bollywood personalities and supporters urged him to end his fast, but Wangchuk continued to insist on an open dialogue with the government before calling off his protest.
