Public movements rarely test only those in power. They also test the people with influence -- the actors, creators and celebrities whose words can move narratives far beyond the streets.

As the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protests continue to dominate headlines, another debate has surfed -- should public figures use their platforms to speak on issues of national importance, or is silence a valid choice?

Also Read: ‘It was an attack, they wanted to hurt the children’: Ranjini Haridas after joining CJP protest

While some celebrities have publicly weighed in, many others have stayed away from the conversation altogether. Against this backdrop, television presenter Ranjini Haridas shared her perspective in an exclusive conversation with Mathrubhumi.

She believes every public figure has the right to decide whether or not to speak on social or political issues.

"In terms of celebrities or people who are a little more familiar to the public, that's their personal choice. I don't think I want to question anybody else on why they speak about something and why they don't want to. That's their own thing."

Ranjini said she follows the same approach herself and never lets others dictate when she should voice an opinion.

"I speak about things when I want to speak about them, and I don't let anybody else decide that for me."

However, she admitted she finds one pattern difficult to ignore.

"When any movement gets strong, then suddenly I see a bunch of them chipping in with a pro-post."

According to Ranjini, supporting a cause only after it gathers momentum can make that support appear less genuine.

Also Read: Cockroach Janta Party and the anxiety of power in India

"If you've already decided not to support a cause, don't support it at all. When you kind of come in just because you understand that it's gaining steam, that makes you look a little bit questionable."