New Delhi: Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has spoken about the international protests over the NEET paper leak, calling on people to ensure that the youth do not lose faith in hard work and meritocracy.In a heartfelt letter to X on Thursday, the big hit reflected the points made by his late father, professor Ramesh Tendulkar, as he expressed the frustration faced by students who believed their efforts had been thwarted.“My father was a professor. He was a mentor and guide to many young students. One lesson he instilled early on was, ‘Failure is okay, cheating is not. Don’t take shortcuts,'” Sachin wrote.Tendulkar’s comments come amid growing protests across the country over alleged irregularities in the NEET exam, with students seeking answers and reforms after a row that sparked outrage.
‘Hard work must pay’
Without directly responding to the investigation or the protests, Tendulkar emphasized that society has a duty to protect the integrity of education and ensure that honesty is valued in short-term ways.“As elders in society, we have a responsibility to shape the culture. People who prioritize results over effort will seek shortcuts in meritocracy.”The former India captain acknowledged the frustration of the students who feel their dedication has not been well recognised.“These days, when students feel frustrated that their hard work hasn’t paid off, it’s understandable. Together, we all have to work together to make sure they never feel that way again.”He also emphasized that this responsibility will extend to the governments and educational institutions.“Indian youth have dreams and energy. They are the driving force behind our success. As a society, all of us, including parents, teachers, friends, family members, schools, and administrators, have a great responsibility and various responsibilities in ensuring that our youth remain motivated and strong.”Calling for a culture rooted in justice and integrity, Tendulkar concluded: “We must create a culture where hard work is rewarded, honesty is encouraged, and success is deserved.”“I am confident that we will all find solutions that will strengthen the future of our children and protect their aspirations.”
Cricketers interact with phones to solve
Tendulkar is the latest cricketer to respond to the controversy.Former India all-rounder Shikhar Dhawan asked the students to be patient and continue to believe in the country’s institutions, saying that solutions will emerge through dialogue and perseverance.Meanwhile, Mohammad Kaif expressed dismay at footage showing police using force against protesting students in Delhi.“As a father it pains me to see students being harassed by the police for protesting educational injustices. Children being beaten with lathis on the streets of Delhi should stop. I hope the solution will come soon,” Kaif wrote on X.Irfan Pathan, a former all-rounder, also encouraged the students, saying that years of hard work and family sacrifice should not be overshadowed by a paper leak. They have asked the government authorities to ensure that every student gets a chance and such things will not happen again.The protests, led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and supported by environmental activists Sonam WangchukIt has increased in recent days, with clashes between protesters and the police.