Singer Neha Bhasin has strongly criticised actor Bhumi Pednekar over her comments on the ongoing NEET-UG 2026 protests, adding another chapter to the growing debate surrounding celebrities’ reactions to the student-led demonstrations.
Bhumi recently shared a video in which she criticised protesters for using abusive language against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While she condemned the use of offensive language and urged people to express their opinions respectfully, her remarks drew mixed reactions on social media. Many users accused the actor of focusing only on the language used by protesters while ignoring the issues that sparked the demonstrations.
Now, Neha Bhasin has publicly voiced similar concerns.
Taking to Instagram, the singer questioned why Bhumi chose to speak only about abusive language but remained silent on the alleged police action against protesting students. Neha suggested that if public figures decide to address such sensitive issues, they should acknowledge every aspect of the situation instead of discussing only one side.
In her post, Neha said she would have respected the Prime Minister even more if there had been accountability for the alleged police misconduct during the protests. According to her, true leadership also involves addressing the concerns and actions of authorities when citizens raise questions.
Neha did not stop there. She also took a direct dig at Bhumi, writing, “Bhumi Pednekar Lock Upp pe bhi scripted thi… Gooda nahi hai toh chup rehna best hai behen,” implying that it is better to remain silent than speak selectively on important public issues.
Her comments have quickly gone viral across social media, with users divided over the controversy. While some supported Neha for questioning selective outrage and speaking in favour of the students, others defended Bhumi, saying she was only advocating respectful public discourse and condemning abusive behaviour.
The controversy began after Bhumi shared a video expressing disappointment over the language used by some protesters while addressing the Prime Minister. She said that such behaviour does not reflect Indian values and stressed that disagreements should be expressed with dignity and respect.
Following criticism, Bhumi later posted another video condemning the rape and death threats allegedly directed at a young female protester whose video had gone viral online. She described such threats as completely unacceptable and highlighted the lasting psychological impact online abuse can have, especially on young women.
Despite the second video, many social media users continued to accuse the actor of attempting “damage control,” arguing that she should have first addressed the alleged violence and harassment faced by the protesters.
Neha Bhasin’s remarks have now added fresh momentum to the online debate, with fans and commentators discussing the role celebrities should play when commenting on politically sensitive issues and public protests.
As of now, Bhumi Pednekar has not publicly responded to Neha Bhasin’s criticism or her Instagram remarks. The discussion, however, continues to trend online, with opinions remaining sharply divided over freedom of expression, accountability and the responsibility of public figures during moments of national debate.
