India is witnessing widespread unrest following police action against student protests demanding the education minister’s resignation over an exam paper leak. While people from various walks of life have expressed solidarity with the students, Bollywood has remained largely silent except for a few exceptions.

In a podcast hosted by journalist Mehedi Hasan, Indian journalist Srinivasan Jain discussed why Bollywood celebrities avoid criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi or the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. Jain argued that their compliance stems from fear for their careers and families rather than belief in Hindu nationalism. He cited examples such as the arrest of Shah Rukh Khan’s son in a drug case, which he viewed as government pressure. Jain added that similar intimidation affects cricketers, athletes, and industrialists, with investigative agencies allegedly used against dissenters.

According to Jain, even immense popularity cannot shield stars from retaliation. He recalled that actor Aamir Khan faced online attacks and lost commercial deals after expressing concern over violence against Muslims during Modi’s first term.