Aamir Khan lends his support for the Narmada Bachao Andolan

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The Narmada Bachao Andolan is group of social activists headed by socialist Medha Patkar. These activists aim to bring justice to those people who have been displaced due to the Narmada dam that has been constructed by the government. Aamir Khan, director of Rang De Basanti, Rakesh Mehra and a few other cast members from Rang De Basanti joined this group of activists in their fight for justice.
On Friday, April 14, 2006, Aamir Khan participated in the demonstrations put up by the Narmada Bachao Andolan committee. The members of this committee, including their leader Medha Patkar have been on a hunger strike since March 29, after the governments decision to raise the height of the Narmada dam. After lending an ear to the woes of the protesters, Aamir states, As a concerned Indian citizen, I have come here to lend my support to these poor Adivasis who will lose their land and will be displaced from their homes if the height of the dam is raised.



In Gujarat, many Congress and BJP political parties have expressed their displeasure that Aamir Khan has joined the protests and they have resorted to burning posters and effigies of the actor where his film Rang De Basanti has been running in theatres. In response to these acts, Aamir simply says, I have no affiliation with any political party and I am not here on behalf of any party. I am not interested in politics. The actor says, Instead of burning my posters, these political parties as well as the state government should look into and address the problems that these Adivasis will face.



Aamir Khan gave this demonstration good media coverage with his presence. He voiced his opinions freely and fearlessly. He also spoke about a few other issues like the Bhopal Gas Tragedy members, who were also simultaneously having a demonstration alongside the Narmada Committee. He also spoke of taking up some glitches with the manufacturing aspect of the Coca Cola soft drink company, a brand endorsed by himself.



Aamir Khans message to the youth and people all over India is We should take up the cause for the betterment of those less fortunate and those who are being wronged. We must raise our voices for a cause that we believe in.



Aamir Khan is definitely taking his screen persona a step further, by coming out into public and lending his support to causes he believes in. Rang De Basantis DJ and Aamir Khan joining the demonstration will definitely inspire the youth of India to likewise raise their voices for justice. This is Aamir...the real hero!