Abhinav Bindra Calls for Merit-Based Education System Amid NEET Protest Row; Nihal Sarin Demands Accountability

New Delhi, Jul 23: Abhinav Bindra - India's first individual Olympic gold-medallist - opened up amidst raging NEET Protests at the Jantar Mantar, calling for an education system that "inspires confidence".

The ongoing protest in the national captital spearheaded by Coakroach Janta Party and the opposition parties has intensified over the last few days against irregularities in the NEET exam that led to suicides by multiple students across the country.

Bindra avoided a direct comment on the ongoing movement that is seeking the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan but stressed on the need for a transparent and merit-based system.

"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," he posted on X.

"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 noted.

"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," he went on to add.

Even more blunt in his views was young Indian Grandmaster Nihal Sarin, one of the world's leading rapid and blitz specialists. Sarin said he was deeply pained by the plight of students who endure immense pressure while preparing for career-defining examinations, adding that such serious issues should not be brushed under the carpet. "We must be accountable," he wrote on 'X'.

"As a young Indian who is proud to represent this nation, I am in pain. The pressure a youngster endures when appearing for a critical exam is not trivial. Brushing it under the carpet is not acceptable," he added.

The protests are being spearheaded by the Cockroach Janata Party with environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk lending support through an ongoing fast. Wangchuk, who was fasting at the Jantar Mantar, was first shifted to Safdarjung Hospital citing his falling vital parameters.

He is now in Medanta Hospital in Gurugram after his wife approached the Delhi High Court seeking a transfer from the government facility. Thousands of students tried to march towards the Parliament on July 20 to express their frustration but were thwarted by Delhi Police's use of force, including tear gas and lathi-charge.