Thousands of students gathered in Delhi this week to protest against Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, demanding his resignation over alleged irregularities in the education system. Among those present at Jantar Mantar was Khushboo Patani, former Army officer and sister of actor Disha Patani.
Unlike many public figures, Khushboo went incognito to participate in the protest. Wearing a cap and a face mask, she blended into the crowd and later shared videos on Instagram documenting her experience of the site.
Who Is Khushboo Patani?
Khushboo Patani is Disha Patani’s elder sister and a former Indian Army officer. Unlike her actor sibling, she has largely stayed away from films and glamour, choosing a career in the armed forces. Over the years, she has built a strong social media following by sharing fitness videos, motivational content and her views on social issues.
What Did Khushboo Patani Witness At The Protest?
After attending the demonstration, Khushboo, in a video posted on Instagram stories, said she felt safe throughout the gathering despite the massive crowd. She especially praised the behaviour of the students.
She said many men made sure women felt comfortable by keeping their hands raised while walking through the crowd to avoid any accidental contact. She added that the experience left her impressed with the younger generation.
Sharing her experience, Khushboo said, “Lakhon mein students thhe aur law enforcement sirf hazaaron mein tha. Karne ke liye toh koi kuch bhi kar sakta hain… Our Gen Z students chose peace. Lathi kha li lekin haath nahi uthaaya… maara nahi kisine.”
She further claimed that several protesters, including women, were beaten during the police action.
“Ladkiyon ko bohot peeta hain. Main khud bhag rahi hoon, mujhe toh khud padey hain. What I am trying to tell you is I have seen this… sab bhaagey peeche ke taraf,” she said.
Why Are Students Protesting?
The protest was organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), with students demanding reforms in the education system and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The demonstrations are also linked to allegations surrounding the NEET paper leak.
The march towards Parliament witnessed clashes between protesters and police. While Delhi Police said demonstrators violated prohibitory orders and turned aggressive, protesters alleged that force, including lathi-charge and tear gas, was used against them.
In the last few days, several public figures, including Shabana Azmi, Vedang Raina, Anupam Kher and Prakash Raj, have expressed support for the students. Although the protesters met representatives of the central government on Tuesday, the agitation continues.
