Model and actress Rhea Ahir, who went viral during the CJP student protests in Mumbai on Friday, said the police officers in the truck she stood in front of were respecting her.
“I didn’t think about others at that moment, I just thought about the people in the truck. There were policemen there and those policemen, who I dealt with, really respected me. I was respectful towards them,” she told news agency ANI.
She added that she felt a little afraid after her videos spread, saying that she only tried to do what she thought was right for herself and those around her. Ahir also said she did not sleep for two nights, and thinks about the students who continue to participate in the movement.
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“My parents really supported me through this. I was a little scared after this thing blew up, and that wasn’t my intention. I’m just a citizen of the nation trying to do right by myself and everyone around me. I didn’t sleep two nights because of what happened with the other students advocating for this movement…”
She also urged the government to withdraw FIRs against student protesters, saying people were “struggling”. She called on the authorities to stand with the youth and become their “friends,” and said the students were only fighting for their rights.
“The government please talk to your officials as well and cancel these FIRs. People are still struggling. So, if you are confusing them, whether they should stand for their right – you are forcing us to be against you. We are not your enemies. Be friends with us.”
Ahir’s reaction to PM Modi’s message
Earlier in the day, she also reacted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s response to the protests and demanded actions instead of words.
“Sure, those were the demands of the students. So, the demands are being listened to; that’s nice. If they are actually implemented, after being heard, and start bearing fruit, it’s one thing to say, but for it to actually happen is another thing. The alleged mastermind of the 2024 leaks has been released on bail and cleared of all allegations,” Ahir told ANI on Friday. So, I hope it doesn’t happen this time.”
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In response to Prime Minister Modi Fast-track court decision “I know you’re going to say it’s going to happen, but we really want to see it happen,” Ahir said.
“Not for fame”
She rejected claims that her actions were to gain any fame or attention online, saying: “I had a hoodie and a hat on. I didn’t show my face. Please don’t ever think this was for fame.”
The 27-year-old actress went viral after videos showed her stopping a Mumbai Police truck carrying protesting students with one hand. Wearing a gray hoodie and hat, Ahir quickly became a symbol of resilience, with her videos and photos being shared widely across social media.
