‘Failure is OK, cheating is not’: Sachin Tendulkar speaks at NEET protests
Sachin Tendulkar shares emotional message on NEET protests. NEW DELHI: Commenting on the nationwide protests over the NEET paper leak, cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar called on society to ensure that youngsters never lose faith in hard work and meritocracy.In a heartfelt post on X on Thursday, the batting great reflected the values instilled in him by his late father, Professor Ramesh Tendulkar, while also expressing concern over the disappointment felt by students who believe their efforts have been undermined.“My father was a professor. He was a mentor and guide to many young students. One of the lessons he instilled early on was, ‘Failure is okay, cheating is not. Never take shortcuts,'” Sachin wrote.Tendulkar’s remarks come amid escalating demonstrations across the country over alleged irregularities in the NEET exam, with students demanding accountability and reforms after the controversy sparked widespread anger.
“Hard work must be rewarded”
Without commenting directly on the investigation or the protests themselves, Tendulkar stressed that society has a collective duty to protect the integrity of education and ensure that honesty is valued over shortcuts.“As adults in society, we have a responsibility to shape the culture. A society that prioritizes results over effort will seek shortcuts over meritocracy.”The former Indian captain acknowledged the frustration of students who feel their dedication has not been fairly recognised.“Today, when students feel disappointed that their hard work hasn’t been rewarded, that’s understandable. Together, we should all work together to make sure they don’t feel that way anymore.”He further emphasized that the responsibility goes beyond governments and educational institutions.“Young India is full of dreams and energy. They are the fuel of our success. As a society, we all, including parents, teachers, friends, relatives, schools and administrators, have a huge responsibility and various roles to play in ensuring that our youth remain encouraged and energized.”Calling for a culture rooted in fairness and integrity, Tendulkar concluded, “We need to create a culture where hard work is rewarded, honesty is encouraged and merit wins.”“I am confident that we will all find solutions that will strengthen the future of our children and protect their aspirations.”
Cricketers join challenges to solve the problem
Tendulkar is the latest high-profile cricket figure to respond to the controversy.Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan appealed to students to remain patient and continue to have faith in the country’s institutions, saying solutions emerge through dialogue and perseverance.Meanwhile, Mohammad Kaif expressed anguish over images showing police using force against protesting students in Delhi.“As a father, it pains me to see students being roughed up by the police for protesting the lack of education. Children being beaten up on the streets of Delhi should stop. I hope a solution comes very soon,” Kaif wrote on X.Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan also extended his support to the students and said that years of hard work and family sacrifices should never be overshadowed by a paper leak. He urged the authorities to ensure that every student gets a fair chance and that such incidents never happen again.The protests, led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and supported by environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, have intensified in recent days, with clashes between protesters and police.