'Was Meant To Join But...': Shabana Azmi Shows Solidarity With CJP Protest Amid Swine Flu Battle

Veteran actress Shabana Azmi has been diagnosed with swine flu and has been advised to remain on proper bed rest for the next few days. Amid this, she shared a picture from the protest, showing her solidarity with the cause, and revealed that she was meant to join the protesters on the ground, but doctors had advised her otherwise.

Sharing the picture, Shabana Azmi wrote, “My dear Mumbaikars, I was meant to join your protest yesterday, but I’ve come down with H1N1 and need to remain in isolation for the next five days. Even so, I want to express my solidarity and appreciation.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shabana Azmi (@azmishabana18)

“I’m receiving first-hand reports from the young people on the ground. Many of them have taken part in a protest for the first time

and have experienced how much their voice counts. I continue to be inspired by your courage and commitment and stand by you in solidarity,” the actress further wrote in her long note.

About Shabana Azmi Being Diagnosed With Swine Flu

A statement from her team read, “Shabana ji was meant to go to the protest today, but she has contracted swine flu with a 102-degree fever and has been advised to rest by the doctor.”

Shabana Suffers Asthma Attack During CJP Protest

“I am an asthmatic and got an attack because of the tear gas, but I had my pump with me, so I am OK now. I was respectfully escorted to a nearby building and, after catching my breath, I went right back and spoke to the students who had been lathi-charged. Their spirit is unprecedented. My salaams to all of them,” Shabana Azmi told The Indian Express.

Further opening up about backing CJP and Sonam Wangchuk, Shabana Azmi added, “I have never belonged to a political party and never will. I believe that puts fetters on you as the party’s truth becomes your truth. I came to Jantar Mantar in solidarity with the students who have been on a hunger strike for over 20 days and whose health is now failing. What they are demanding is not sinister or evil. Students are asking for educational reforms to safeguard their future and an overhaul of the education system. They are demanding that an allocation of 6 percent of the GDP for education is urgently required. Listen to them, give them an ear, and give them hope. Unka hausla badhaiye, isse crush karne ki koshish mat kijiye (boost their hope, don’t crush it).”