Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar has addressed the ongoing nationwide protests concerning alleged irregularities in the NEET examination. In a statement shared on X, Tendulkar emphasised the importance of hard work and meritocracy, drawing on lessons from his late father, Professor Ramesh Tendulkar. He highlighted his father’s teaching: “Failure is okay, cheating is not. Never take shortcuts.”
Tendulkar’s comments arrive amidst escalating demonstrations across the country, where students are demanding accountability and reforms following widespread anger over the controversy. While not directly commenting on the investigation or the protests, Tendulkar stressed that society has a collective duty to protect educational integrity and ensure honesty is valued.
Calls for Integrity and Fair Opportunity
The former India captain acknowledged the disappointment felt by students whose efforts they believe have not been fairly recognised. He stated, “Today, when students feel disappointed that their hard work hasn’t been rewarded, it is understandable. Collectively, we should all work together towards ensuring they don’t feel this way again.”
Tendulkar further articulated that the responsibility for fostering a fair educational environment extends beyond governments and educational institutions. He noted that parents, teachers, friends, relatives, schools, and administrators all have significant roles in encouraging and energising young people. He called for a culture where hard work is rewarded, honesty is encouraged, and merit prevails, expressing certainty that solutions will be found to strengthen children’s futures and safeguard their aspirations.
Abhinav Bindra, India‘s first individual Olympic gold medallist, also contributed to the discussion, advocating for an education system that inspires confidence. Bindra, while avoiding direct comment on the movement seeking the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, underscored the necessity of a transparent and merit-based system.
Writing on X, Bindra stated, “The measure of a nation is found not only in its economy or its achievements, but in the opportunities it creates for its young people. An education system that inspires confidence, rewards merit and nurtures curiosity is one of a nation’s greatest strengths.” He expressed hope for collective efforts to strengthen the education system, ensuring it remains a source of opportunity, innovation, and hope for future generations.
Athletes Support Student Concerns
Tendulkar is among several high-profile cricket figures who have reacted to the controversy. Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan appealed to students for patience, encouraging them to maintain faith in the country’s institutions and suggesting that solutions emerge through dialogue and perseverance.
Mohammad Kaif expressed distress over visuals depicting police using force against protesting students in Delhi. He wrote on X, “As a father it pains me to see students being roughed up by police for protesting over flaws in education. Kids getting beaten with lathis on the streets of Delhi should stop. I hope a solution comes up very soon.”
Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan also voiced support for the students, emphasising that years of hard work and family sacrifices should not be overshadowed by a paper leak. He urged authorities to ensure fair opportunities for every student and to prevent such incidents from recurring.
The protests, spearheaded by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and supported by environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, have intensified in recent days, leading to clashes between demonstrators and police. Wangchuk, who was fasting at Jantar Mantar, was moved to Safdarjung Hospital due to falling vital parameters and is now at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram after his wife sought a transfer from the government facility. Thousands of students attempted to march towards the Parliament on July 20 but were met with force from the Delhi Police, including the use of tear gas and lathi-charge.
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Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
