Row Over 'Dimaghi Naxal' Remark: Hannan Mollah's Sharp Reply

The war of words over Naseeruddin Shah has escalated after CPI(M) leader Hannan Mollah hit back at Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. On Thursday, Mollah called Rijiju a 'mental criminal,' responding to the minister's 'dimaghi naxal' comment about the veteran actor.

The row began a day earlier, when Rijiju posted on X calling Shah a 'dangerous urban dimaghi naxal.' In his message, the minister said he had once respected the actor but later learned of his real character. He said Shah posed a serious threat to India's democracy.

Mollah reacted by questioning Rijiju's understanding of the country's history and values. "Kiren Rijiju lives in his own bubble. He has no understanding of India's freedom, democracy or Constitution," he said.

He also defended Shah's standing, saying the actor is internationally recognised. If Shah had voiced support for Gen Z protesters, Mollah argued, the views should have been addressed on merit rather than through personal attacks.

Mollah said critics who question the government or speak out against wrongdoing are being branded 'brainwashed naxals.' He described people who act as agents, flatterers and blind loyalists as mentally unwell. Dividing the country into two camps, he said Shah was being labelled a brainwashed naxal, while he himself called Rijiju a 'dimaghi pagal.'

Targeting the BJP, Mollah alleged that those who question the ruling party are met with insulting names. He claimed the situation had deteriorated so far that someone could commit rape and become an MP, and said people would continue to speak out against such developments.

Congress MP JB Mather echoed the criticism. She said anyone whose views do not sit well with the BJP is given a new label, from 'tukde-tukde gang' to 'urban naxal' and now 'dimaghi naxal.' According to her, it was no surprise that the party uses such names to address people.