NEW DELHI: Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar has spoken out on the nationwide protests over the NEET paper leak, calling on society to ensure that young people never lose faith in hard work and meritocracy.In a heartfelt post on X on Thursday, the batting great reflected on the values instilled in him by his late father, professor Ramesh Tendulkar, while expressing concern over the disappointment felt by students who believe their efforts have been undermined.“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,'” Sachin wrote.Tendulkar’s remarks come amid escalating demonstrations across the country over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination, with students demanding accountability and reforms after the controversy triggered widespread anger.
‘Hard work must be rewarded’
Without commenting directly on the investigation or the protests themselves, Tendulkar stressed that society has a collective duty to protect the integrity of education and ensure that honesty is valued over shortcuts.“As adults in society, we have the responsibility of shaping culture. A society which prioritises outcomes over effort will seek shortcuts over meritocracy.”The former India captain acknowledged the frustration of students who feel their dedication has not been fairly recognised.“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.”He further underlined that the responsibility extends beyond governments and educational institutions.“Young India is full of dreams and energy. They are the fuel to our success. As a society, all of us, including parents, teachers, friends, relatives, schools, and administrators, have a massive responsibility and different roles to play in ensuring our youth remain encouraged and energised.”Calling for a culture rooted in fairness and integrity, Tendulkar concluded: “We must create a culture where hard work is rewarded, honesty is encouraged, and merit wins.”“I am certain we will all find solutions that strengthen our children’s future and safeguard their aspirations.”
Cricketers join calls for resolution
Tendulkar is the latest high-profile cricket figure to react to the controversy.Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan appealed to students to remain patient and continue believing in the country’s institutions, saying solutions emerge through dialogue and perseverance.Meanwhile, Mohammad Kaif expressed anguish over visuals showing police using force against protesting students in Delhi.“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,” Kaif wrote on X.Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan also voiced support for students, stating that years of hard work and family sacrifices should never be overshadowed by a paper leak. He urged authorities to ensure every student receives a fair opportunity and that such incidents never recur.The protests, led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and supported by environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, have intensified in recent days, with clashes between demonstrators and police.