India: Shubman Gill advocates compassion and respect amid student protests

By Rohan Gupta — 23 July 2026 — 3 min read

India Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill has called for compassion and mutual respect amidst ongoing student protests regarding exam paper leaks. Gill emphasised the importance of safeguarding students’ interests and ensuring they have opportunities to pursue their aspirations and contribute to the nation’s future.

In a message shared on Thursday, Gill highlighted that India’s youth deserve every chance to learn, dream, and shape the country’s future. The 26-year-old cricketer expressed support for those peacefully raising their voices, underscoring the significance of education.

Sports figures support students

Gill’s statement comes as widespread protests continue across the country, with students demanding accountability for repeated examination paper leaks. He acknowledged the concerns of young people and commended those who choose peaceful methods to express their views.

“I have immense respect for every young person who believes in making their voice heard peacefully,” Gill stated. He added that education is a crucial pillar of nation-building and urged an empathetic approach to the situation. “Education has the power to shape our nation’s future. I hope we move forward with compassion, mutual respect and keeping the best interests of every student at heart,” he concluded.

Gill is one of several prominent Indian sports personalities who have publicly addressed the protests. Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar previously urged the importance of honesty and merit over shortcuts, noting that students’ disappointment is understandable when hard work goes unrewarded. Abhinav Bindra, India’s first individual Olympic gold medallist, also stressed the need for an education system that inspires confidence and rewards merit.

Bindra posted on X, stating that the measure of a nation is found in the opportunities it creates for its young people. He hopes for collective efforts to strengthen the education system, ensuring it remains a source of opportunity, innovation, and hope for future generations.

Grandmaster Nihal Sarin also voiced his concern, highlighting the immense pressure students face during crucial examinations. He called for accountability, stating that such serious issues should not be ignored. Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif expressed pain at seeing students subjected to lathi-charges during protests, hoping for a swift resolution.

Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan remarked that no paper leak should undermine years of hard work and family sacrifices. Shikhar Dhawan appealed for patience, dialogue, and faith in the country’s institutions as the way forward. The protests are being led by the Cockroach Janata Party, with environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk supporting through an ongoing fast.

Wangchuk was initially moved to Safdarjung Hospital due to falling vital parameters and is now at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram after his wife sought a transfer. Thousands of students attempted to march towards the Parliament on July 20 to express their frustration but were met with force by Delhi Police, including tear gas and lathi-charges.

Call for a confident education system

Bindra, while avoiding direct political comment, stressed the need for a transparent and merit-based education system. He believes that education is an issue that concerns everyone, regardless of political stance. He hopes for unity in strengthening the education system for future generations.

Sarin echoed these sentiments, expressing his pain over the plight of students and the pressure they endure. He emphasised that brushing such serious issues aside is unacceptable, calling for accountability from authorities. Gill’s comments add a significant voice from the sporting community to the ongoing discussion about ensuring fairness and trust within India’s education system.

The collective calls from these sports figures underscore a shared belief in the importance of a robust and equitable education system for India’s future. Gill’s message on Thursday highlighted the need for compassion and mutual respect.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Rohan Gupta

Sports Reporter