Yuvraj Singh, Manu Bhaker, Nikhat Zareen Speak Out as CJP Protests Continue

Several leading figures from Indian sport have spoken out amid the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led protests over the alleged NEET paper leak and demands for education reforms, with Olympic champions, World Cup-winning cricketers and athletes calling for dialogue, accountability and the protection of students.

While most have stopped short of endorsing any political side, many have stressed the need for peaceful resolution, a stronger education system and an end to violence.

Yuvraj Singh urges dialogue

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh became the highest-profile cricketer to comment publicly on the protests.

In an Instagram Story, the 2011 World Cup winner appealed to both the government and the protesters to find a peaceful resolution.

"To every child, student, woman and man: you deserve the opportunity to learn in peace, grow with safety and chase your dreams."

"Your well-being is the foundation of a brighter India."

"Let's come together to build communities of care, opportunity and hope."

"Through dialogue we can find an amicable solution for the sake of India's future."

Yuvraj did not take sides but called for constructive engagement between all stakeholders.

Shikhar Dhawan calls for patience

Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan also shared his thoughts on social media, urging calm while emphasising faith in democratic institutions.

"Our youth are the future of our nation. It is essential to understand their dreams, but at the same time, it is equally important to maintain patience in difficult times and keep faith in the country's institutions and government."

"I believe that the solution to every challenge emerges with patience. India has always moved forward and will continue to progress."

Abhinav Bindra backs stronger education system

India's first individual Olympic gold medallist, Abhinav Bindra, focused on the importance of education rather than the political aspects of the protests.

"I have never considered myself a political person. But I do believe that some issues belong to all of us, regardless of where we stand. Education is one of them."

"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."

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

Manu Bhaker speaks up for students

Double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker also expressed concern over the impact of the unrest on students.

"At this point, it's about the lives of the future of our nation."

"Every child deserves access to education, safety, and a fair chance at life. These are not privileges-they are fundamental rights."

She added that the issue transcended politics.

"This is not about promoting or opposing any political party. It is about speaking up for what truly matters-education, the environment, safety, and accountability."

Nikhat Zareen urges government to listen

World champion boxer Nikhat Zareen appealed directly for dialogue.

"Students are the future. Listen before they stop speaking."

"Nations don't grow by silencing questions. They grow by answering them."

"Dialogue safeguards tomorrow. That is democracy."

Reactions from cricket families

Although many active Indian cricketers have remained silent, several family members have publicly shared their views.

Rohit Sharma's wife Ritika Sajdeh takes a stand

Rohit Sharma's wife and sports manager Ritika Sajdeh reposted a viral video of a nine-year-old child speaking about joining the protests despite fears of police action.

Sanjana Ganesan criticises brutality against protesters

Jasprit Bumrah's wife and presenter Sanjana Ganesan criticised the reported use of tear gas against protesters.

"No democracy should normalise children choking on tear gas. No peaceful citizen should have to fear the people meant to protect them."

Devisha Shetty urges for peace

Suryakumar Yadav's wife, entrepreneur Devisha Shetty, called for peaceful democratic protest while condemning violence from all sides.

She wrote:

"Criticise the government, question the Prime Minister, protest against policies, campaign against the ruling party, vote them out. That's democracy."

In subsequent posts, she also criticised violence, attacks on police personnel and damage to public property.

Priya Saroj in action on the ground

Rinku Singh's fiancée and Member of Parliament Priya Saroj has been actively present at protest sites alongside senior Samajwadi Party leaders.

The statements mark one of the most significant public responses from India's sporting community to a domestic social issue in recent years, with athletes largely focusing on education, student welfare and the need for peaceful dialogue rather than making overt political endorsements.