Cricket and Olympic figures advocate for integrity in education amid NEET protests

By Rohan Gupta — 23 July 2026 — 3 min read

Sachin Tendulkar, a prominent figure in cricket, has addressed the ongoing nationwide protests concerning alleged irregularities in the NEET examination. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that young individuals maintain their belief in hard work and meritocracy. Tendulkar conveyed his sentiments through a post on X on Thursday, reflecting on the principles instilled in him by his father, Professor Ramesh Tendulkar.

Tendulkar highlighted a key lesson from his father: “Failure is okay, cheating is not. Never take shortcuts.” These remarks come as demonstrations escalate across the country, with students expressing widespread anger and demanding accountability and reforms following the controversy.

Calls for Educational Integrity

While refraining from direct comments on the investigation or the protests, Tendulkar underscored society’s collective duty to uphold the integrity of the education system. He stressed the need to ensure that honesty is valued above shortcuts. “As adults in society, we have the responsibility of shaping culture. A society which prioritises outcomes over effort will seek shortcuts over meritocracy,” he stated.

The former India captain acknowledged the frustration experienced by students who feel their dedication has not been adequately recognized. He noted that it is understandable for students to feel disappointed when their hard work appears unrewarded. Tendulkar called for a collective effort to prevent such feelings in the future.

He further elaborated that this responsibility extends beyond governmental bodies and educational institutions. Tendulkar emphasized that “Young India is full of dreams and energy. They are the fuel to our success.” He added that all members of society, including parents, teachers, friends, relatives, schools, and administrators, have significant roles in encouraging and energizing the youth.

Tendulkar concluded by advocating for a culture founded on fairness and integrity. He expressed certainty that solutions would be found to strengthen children’s futures and safeguard their aspirations, stating, “We must create a culture where hard work is rewarded, honesty is encouraged, and merit wins.”

Sports Personalities Weigh In

Tendulkar is among several high-profile sports figures who have reacted to the controversy. Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan urged students to remain patient and maintain faith in the country’s institutions, suggesting that solutions emerge through dialogue and perseverance.

Mohammad Kaif conveyed his distress regarding 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, asserting that years of hard work and family sacrifices should not be overshadowed by a paper leak. He called upon authorities to ensure that every student receives a fair opportunity and that such incidents are not repeated.

Abhinav Bindra, India’s first individual Olympic gold medalist, also spoke out on Thursday, calling for an education system that “inspires confidence.” Bindra, while not directly commenting on the movement seeking the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, stressed the need for a transparent and merit-based system.

Bindra posted on X, “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.” He added that an education system fostering confidence, rewarding merit, and nurturing curiosity is a nation’s greatest strength. He expressed hope for unity and collaboration to strengthen the education system, ensuring it remains a source of opportunity, innovation, and hope for future generations.

The protests, spearheaded by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and supported by environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, have intensified recently, leading to clashes between demonstrators and police. Wangchuk, who was fasting at Jantar Mantar, was moved to Safdarjung Hospital due to declining vital parameters and is now at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram after his wife’s intervention with the Delhi High Court. Thousands of students attempted to march towards the Parliament on July 20 but were met with force from the Delhi Police, including tear gas and lathi-charges.

The widespread demonstrations continue to highlight concerns over the integrity of the examination process.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Rohan Gupta

Sports Reporter