Mohit Raina to Karan Tacker: This Republic Day TV stars reveal what change they'd wish to see soon

Celebrities, especially actors, usually shy away from voicing their views on political issues or current affairs fearing a backlash. However, this time TV stars are voicing their opinion on topics ranging from encouraging education of the girl child to demanding industry status for the entertainment sector. Read on...

MOHIT RAINA

I would like to have fast track courts for certain serious crimes where the victim’s family doesn’t have to wait for years. It would be really helpful in the growth of our country. I also want to see quick and harsh punishment for those guilty of child abuse so that nobody dares to repeat it. We need to set examples.

SAUMYA TANDON

The entertainment sector in our country does not have an industry status, which is surprising. It is growing at the rate of 10.4 per cent per annum, which is more than the average growth of any industry in the world, which is four per cent. It is providing employment and contributing to the GDP of the country in such a huge way. Not only that, Indian cinema is a huge export to the outside world, in terms of money and brand India. Entertainment industry is taxed, but they don’t get any benefits. It is high time the industry is acknowledged.

GAUTAM RODE

Rape and molestation cases should be given priority and should be dealt with more stringently. Every man in our country needs to respect women and know that he cannot get away with such crimes.

MANIESH PAUL

We belong to the land of Mahatma Gandhi and the one change I definitely want to see is strict adherence to non-violence. Whoever takes the route of violence for protests or otherwise should be dealt with strongly, especially in the current scenario. I am really shocked and ashamed at the attack on a school bus in relation to the protests against Padmaavat. That’s not called for, children have got nothing to do with it. I’ve two kids and I was moved by the video, which saw teachers protecting the toddlers. Hats off to the teachers and shame on the attackers!

JAY BHANUSHALI

The girl child should get at least 50 per cent concession in private schools. We have campaigns to encourage education of girls but that needs to be followed up with on-ground effort too.

ASHISH SHARMA

I want to see the reservation system abolished. Everybody should get an equal platform and opportunity to achieve what they want based only on merit and not your surname.

KARAN TACKER

Celebrities, especially actors, are expected to stand up for what is right because they can influence people. But they are scared to do so because they are soft targets. The right to Freedom of Speech needs to be protected.

SHUBHANGI ATRE

Quick action needs to be taken against rapists. There should be a few changes in the law for the heinous crime. Also, there should be strict rules for cleanliness and punishment for those who destroy public property.  

KARAN PATEL

As per the Constitution, no person shall be deprived of their life and personal liberty. But, people are often worried about speaking their mind and that’s sad. We should be able to speak our minds, live our lives, and be allowed personal liberty within the framework of law.