'Faith in democracy is being drained away': Malayalam actor Tovino Thomas joins voices backing CJP student protest

KOCHI: Malayalam actor Tovino Thomas has expressed solidarity with CJP student activists who staged a demonstration at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, stating that the right to dissent is a fundamental pillar of democracy.

In a social media statement, Tovino criticised the official handling of the demonstration, arguing that meeting the voices of the younger generation with repressive force undermines public faith in democratic institutions.

"Right and wrong may be relative, but this is certainly NOT the way to handle a peaceful protest," the actor wrote. "When the future generation of a nation speaks up, and their voices are met with repressive force, it is the future itself that is being stamped down. It is faith in democracy that is being drained away."

Questioning the treatment meted out to the demonstrators, Tovino asked whether the students had destroyed property or resorted to violence. He extended his wholehearted support to individuals peacefully protesting for just causes nationwide, emphasising that dissent poses no threat to democracy.

Addressing potential critics, Tovino added that his stance transcends political and religious divisions. "To anyone about to question my sense of nationalism, I know myself better than you do," he stated. "My politics is humanity. My belief is peace."

Alongside Tovino, celebrity anchor Ranjini Haridas, prominent Bollywood actors, and several filmmakers have also extended their support to the CJP protests.