New Delhi: India’s first individual Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra A number of students committed suicide on Thursday amid calls for an education system that “inspiring confidence” as protests continued across the country over alleged irregularities in NEET exams.Without commenting directly on the ongoing protests or the demand for the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Bindra said the focus should remain on establishing a transparent and merit-based education system.“I have never considered myself a political figure. But I do believe that there are issues that belong to all of us, no matter where we stand. Education is one of them,” Bindra wrote on X.“A country is measured not just by its economy or its achievements, but by the opportunities it creates for its young people. An education system that inspires confidence, rewards merit and fosters curiosity is one of a country’s greatest strengths,” he added.“I hope we can all come together and work together to continue strengthening our education system so that it can be a source of opportunity, innovation and hope for generations to come,” he said.
Indian guru Nihal Sarin has also spoken out on the issue, saying he is deeply disturbed by the pressure students face while preparing for important exams and that such concerns should not be ignored.“We must take responsibility,” Sarin wrote on X.“As a young Indian who proudly represents this country, it pains me. The pressure on young people while appearing for crucial exams is not insignificant. Covering it up is unacceptable,” he added.The protests are led by the Cockroach People’s Party, with environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk lending support through an indefinite fast.Wangchuk, who was fasting at Jantar Mantar, was first shifted to Safdarjung Hospital after doctors expressed concerns about his declining vital signs.He was later shifted to Medanta Hospital in Gurgaon after his wife approached the Delhi High Court seeking his transfer from the government-run hospital.On July 20, thousands of students tried to march to Parliament to protest against irregularities in the NEET exam. The march was halted by Delhi police, who used tear gas and violent attacks to disperse the protesters.
