Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra reacts to CJP protests: Education belongs to all

Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra on Thursday weighed in on the ongoing student protests at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar and called for a stronger education system, while stressing that the issue transcends political differences. His statement came as demonstrations over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and investigation irregularities continued to gain nationwide support.

Without taking a political stance or directly commenting on the confrontation between protesters and authorities, Bindra spoke about the importance of providing educational opportunities for young Indians.

CJP protests at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi: UPDATE

“I have never considered myself a political person. But I believe that some issues belong to all of us, regardless of where we stand. Education is one of them,” Bindra wrote on social media.

The Beijing 2008 champion added that an education system based on merit and trust is essential for the country’s future.

“The measure of a nation is found not only in its economy or its achievements, but in the opportunities it creates for its young people. An education system that inspires confidence, rewards merit, and nurtures curiosity is one of a nation’s greatest strengths,” he wrote.

Ending his message on a hopeful note, Bindra urged all stakeholders to work together for future generations.

“I hope we can all come together and work together to continually strengthen our education system so that it remains a source of opportunity, innovation and hope for generations to come,” he wrote.

WHY STUDENTS PROTEST

Led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), the protests began after the alleged leak of the NEET-UG 2026 paper and have since evolved into a nationwide movement demanding greater transparency and accountability in India’s examination system.

The students demanded stricter safeguards against paper leaks, systemic reforms, compensation for disabled candidates and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The agitation began at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on 20 June before culminating in the ‘Chalo Sansad’ march on July 20, when thousands of students tried to march on parliament. Clashes erupted after police stopped the march, sparking widespread criticism and further fueling protests.

The movement also spread to Bihar, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Goa and Rajasthan and demonstrations were held in several cities. Activist Sonam Wangchuk later joined the protest and started an indefinite hunger strike in support of the students’ demands. While organizers urged him to end the fast, Wangchuk claimed he would do so only after receiving assurances that no retaliatory actions would be taken against the protesters.

BINDRA JOINS A DIFFERENT CHORUS OF VOICES

Binder’s statement comes as the protests have sparked a broader national debate about the credibility of bankruptcy exams.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Thursday that the government will set up fast-track courts to ensure swift and severe punishment of those involved in the leak of exam papers, while reiterating that protecting the interests of students remains a priority.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the government’s handling of the issue, while former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh also called for a dialogue between the authorities and student representatives.

– The end

Issued by:

Debodinna Chakraborty

Published on:

Jul 23, 2026 12:02 PM IST