Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah found himself at the centre of controversy when his remarks on receding law and order and mob violence in country sparked debate on social media. The actor was criticised by many, however, he found support in few people of his own fraternity. Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar and Ashutosh Rana have come out in support of their fellow actor. Rana argued that nobody should be put on a social media trial for speaking their mind, while Bhandarkar claimed that everybody including Naseeruddin Shah has the right to expression their views in a democracy.
Ashutosh Rana and Madhur Bhandarkar came out in support of Shah, after his remarks on cow vigilantism and mob violence didn’t go down well with many right wing supporters. He said, “the situation improving anytime soon”. “In many areas, we are witnessing that the death of a cow has more significant than that of a police officer.”
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Rana pleaded to people to ponder over Naseeruddin Shah’s statement instead of merely reacting to it. He said, “Everyone has the right to share his/her views. If someone speaks his mind in the country, does that mean there should be a social trial? We should seriously listen to him/her instead.”
The Dhadak actor was talking to the media in Delhi last week. He added, “If someone is speaking his mind and there is a debate, will it improve the country’s economic situation.”
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Fashion filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar on the similar lines. He said since we live in a democratic country, everybody has the right to share their thoughts. “Everyone has the right to speak. We live in a democratic country. I don’t think there is any fear. Everyone is equal in India and this is his point of view. This is the special thing about our country that everyone can express their opinions,” he said.