Cricketers Show Support for NEET-UG Protesters Amid Ongoing Tensions

Cricketers Express Solidarity with NEET-UG Protesters

On Friday, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar voiced his support for students protesting the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. He emphasized the importance of allowing the youth's voices to be heard, stating that they should not be silenced. Protests have been ongoing at Tolstoy Marg and Janpath in New Delhi, where students and activists are demonstrating against the government regarding exam paper leaks and broader educational issues. Manjrekar shared his thoughts on X, saying, "I stand in solidarity with the youth of India. Do not suppress them, give them wings. They will take India to new heights."

I stand in solidarity with the youth of India. Do not suppress them, give them wings. They will take India to new heights. #DelhiProtest

Former cricketer Suresh Raina also weighed in, urging for calm and constructive discussions amidst the protests. He expressed hope that the current unrest would lead to meaningful decisions that would benefit students and educational institutions. Raina stated, "Every challenge is an opportunity to find better solutions. Hoping the current situation leads to calm, constructive dialogue and thoughtful decisions that create opportunities, and a stronger future for students, institutions, and the nation."

Every challenge is an opportunity to find better solutions. Hoping the current situation leads to calm, constructive dialogue and thoughtful decisions that create opportunities, and a stronger future for students, institutions, and the nation.

Government Agrees to Negotiate

In a related development, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) announced that the government has consented to their request for discussions at a neutral location on Friday. They reiterated their demands, which include the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, a key demand from the protesting students. The talks are set to occur at the Constitution Club of India.

This progress follows activist Sonam Wangchuk's conclusion of a 26-day hunger strike at Medanta Hospital, where he was visited by Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh.