As the ongoing student demonstrations at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar enter their second month, the movement has gained unprecedented momentum, capturing national attention across social media. What began as localized outrage over alleged irregularities and paper leaks in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) has transformed into a pan-India crusade demanding accountability, institutional reform, and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. In a significant shift, prominent sports personalities have broken their silence to back the youth. Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and current ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill have both taken to public platforms to voice their solidarity with candidates across the country.
Sachin Tendulkar cites his father’s teachings as he reacts to student protests
Adding his influential voice to the national dialogue, Tendulkar shared a deeply personal reflection on social media, drawing parallels between sportsmanship and academic integrity. Reflecting on the core principles imparted by his late father, Ramesh Tendulkar, who was a dedicated university professor, the legendary batter emphasized that societal success cannot be built on broken trust or shortcuts.
“My father was a professor. He was a mentor and guide to many young students. One lesson that he instilled early on was, ‘Failure is okay, cheating is not. Never take shortcuts,’” Tendulkar shared on X.
Tendulkar highlighted that when young aspirants put in relentless hard work only to see their efforts compromised, disappointment is entirely natural. He stressed that adults in authority carry a collective responsibility to preserve a true meritocracy rather than prioritizing quick results. Describing the country’s youth as “Young India” and the foundational engine driving national success, he urged administrators, educators, and parents to join forces. His message underscored the urgent necessity of protecting young people’s dreams through systemic fairness, ensuring that merit remains the ultimate deciding factor in competitive examinations.
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) July 23, 2026
Shubman Gill extends his support to students across India
Following Tendulkar’s message, Indian cricket star and current national captain Gill expressed his strong backing for the student community via an Instagram story. Representing the perspective of the younger generation, Gill acknowledged the determination of candidates standing up for their rights and emphasized the transformative power of a fair educational framework.
“As a young Indian, I believe our generation deserves every opportunity to learn, dream, and shape the future we all aspire to,” Gill wrote, highlighting his respect for those peacefully asserting their rights.
Gill’s empathetic response called for a compassionate approach to resolving the crisis, emphasizing that policy decisions and administrative measures must keep the welfare of students at their absolute core. By advocating for mutual respect and constructive dialogue, the young captain reinforced the idea that protecting academic credibility is vital for India’s future development. With high-profile icons amplifying the cause, the nationwide call for structural reform and transparency in competitive testing continues to gather strength.
INSTAGRAM STORY BY INDIAN CAPTAIN SHUBMAN GILL 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/Qf8HJctMTz
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 23, 2026
Here’s how other cricketer’s reacted:
INSTAGRAM STORY OF ISHAN KISHAN FOR STUDENTS 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/TfDU5X4e1m
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 24, 2026
This isn’t just about NEET paper leaks. It’s a revolt against feeling generally suppressed in a democracy & the mainstream media’s brainwashing.
As a father of two, I know first hand : suppressing & brainwashing today’s youth will never work.
— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) July 24, 2026
Every student puts in years of hard work for a better future and their families make sacrifices along the way too. No paper leak should ever be allowed to take that hope.
I have full faith that our country,authorities will ensure every one of them gets a fair chance. I also hope…
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) July 23, 2026
https://x.com/SDhawan25/status/2080167456191197508
