'I hope we can all unite': Bindra urges to 'strengthen education system' amid protests

NEW DELHI: India's first individual Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra on Thursday called for an education system that "inspires confidence" as protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination continue across the country, with multiple students having died by suicide.Without directly commenting on the ongoing protests or demands for the removal of Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Bindra said the focus should remain on building a transparent and merit-based education 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," Bindra wrote 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 added."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 said.Indian Grandmaster Nihal Sarin also spoke out on the issue, saying he was deeply troubled by the pressure students face while preparing for important examinations and that such concerns should not be ignored."We must be accountable," Sarin 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 led by the Cockroach Janata Party, with environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk extending support through an indefinite fast.Wangchuk, who was fasting at Jantar Mantar, was first shifted to Safdarjung Hospital after doctors raised concerns over his falling vital parameters.He was later moved to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram after his wife approached the Delhi high court seeking his transfer from the government-run hospital.On July 20, thousands of students attempted to march towards Parliament to protest against the irregularities in the NEET examination. The march was stopped by Delhi Police, who used tear gas and carried out a lathi-charge to disperse the protesters.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.