Shubman Gill and Sachin Tendulkar Advocate for Youth and Integrity Amid Protests

In a show of support for the youth, Indian cricket stars Shubman Gill and Sachin Tendulkar have voiced their opinions amid ongoing protests related to the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. Gill advocates for peaceful expression and educational integrity, while Tendulkar emphasizes the importance of hard work and merit. The Delhi High Court is set to hear a PIL seeking an NIA investigation into the protests, which have raised concerns over violence and public safety. This article explores their messages and the current legal proceedings.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 23, 2026, 22:32 IST

Shubman Gill Supports Youth and Calls for Peaceful Advocacy

On Thursday, Shubman Gill, the captain of India's Test and ODI teams, expressed his support for the youth of India during the ongoing protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) in the capital. These demonstrations are a response to allegations regarding the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. High-profile figures are emphasizing the importance of peaceful advocacy, academic integrity, and a merit-based system.

"As a young Indian, I believe our generation deserves every opportunity to learn, dream, and shape the future we aspire to. I have immense respect for every young person who believes in making their voice heard peacefully," Gill shared on his Instagram story. He added, "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. For India's future."

Sachin Tendulkar Stresses the Importance of Meritocracy

In a related context, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar called on society to uphold values of honesty, hard work, and merit in light of the youth-led protests in Delhi. These protests are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan due to the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak.

Tendulkar took to X to share a lesson from his father: "Failure is okay, cheating is not." He acknowledged that students' frustrations over their hard work not being recognized are valid. He urged parents, educators, and society to foster an environment that encourages integrity and rewards merit, motivating young individuals to chase their dreams.

"My father was a professor and a mentor to many. He taught me early on that 'Failure is okay, cheating is not. Never take shortcuts.' As adults, we must shape a culture that values effort over mere outcomes. When students feel their hard work goes unrewarded, it is understandable. We must work together to ensure they do not feel this way again. Young India is brimming with dreams and energy, and we all have a role in keeping them motivated," Tendulkar emphasized.

He concluded by advocating for a culture that honors hard work and honesty, expressing confidence in our ability to secure a brighter future for the youth. "We must create a culture where hard work is rewarded, honesty is encouraged, and merit prevails. I am certain we will find solutions that strengthen our children's future and protect their aspirations. Jai Hind!"

Delhi High Court to Review PIL for NIA Investigation

In other developments, the Delhi High Court has agreed to hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) on Friday that calls for a National Investigation Agency (NIA) inquiry into the "Sansad Chalo" protest that occurred on July 20 regarding the alleged NEET paper leak.

The petition states that protests began at Jantar Mantar on June 6, 2026, culminating in the July 20 march. It seeks to transfer all FIRs related to the incident to a specialized investigative agency and to take action against those allegedly involved in the violence. The petition claims that the protest escalated into violence, resulting in stone-pelting, injuries to police officers, attacks on journalists, damage to both public and private property, obstruction of emergency services, and attempts to approach Parliament House.