‘Heartbreaking to see students suffer’: Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker talks about paper leak protests, demands accountability

Protest against NEET paper leak case in Mumbai (left) and Manu Bhaker Two-time Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker has expressed concern over students protesting the alleged leak of exam papers, saying every child deserves access to education, safety and a fair chance in life.In a post on social media, the Indian shooter said the issue was beyond politics and called for responsibility to protect the future of students.“At this moment, the lives of our nation’s future are at stake. We are at stake,” Bhaker wrote.“I am a student, and at one point we were all students. Every child deserves access to education, safety and a fair chance at life. These are not privileges – they are basic rights.”Referring to the students and children who lost their lives, Bhaker said they deserve a better future.“They should have been the future of our country,” she wrote, adding that “their dreams, their potential and their future should have been protected.”Bhaker also said that the matter should not be viewed through a political lens and urged people to focus on issues that affect everyone.“It’s not about promoting or opposing any political party. It’s about speaking up for what’s really important – education, the environment, safety and responsibility. These issues affect all of us, regardless of our beliefs,” she said.The Olympic medalist said she was saddened to see students facing such circumstances, stressing that they deserve better.“I am extremely proud to represent my country. That is why it is deeply heartbreaking to see students suffer like this. We owe them more. We owe every child a future where they can learn, grow and dream without fear,” she added.