'Students deserve every opportunity,': Shubman Gill reacts to exam paper leak protests

New Delhi: India’s Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill has called for compassion and mutual respect amid ongoing student protests over alleged examination irregularities and repeated paper leaks.

In a message shared on his Instagram Story, Gill said young people should have every opportunity to learn, pursue their dreams and help shape the country's future.

'As a young Indian, I believe our generation deserves every opportunity to learn, dream and shape the future we all aspire to,' Gill wrote.

The 26-year-old cricketer also expressed respect for students and young people who choose to raise their voices peacefully.

'I have immense respect for every young person who believes in making their voice heard peacefully,' he said.

Gill highlighted the importance of education in building the nation and urged all sides to approach students' concerns with empathy.

'Education has the power to shape our nation's future. I hope we move forward with compassion, mutual respect and keeping the best interests of every student at heart.

'For India's future,' Gill wrote.

Gill's comments come amid student protests in several parts of the country over alleged paper leaks and irregularities in the examination system.

Earlier, legendary Sachin Tendulkar urged society to uphold honesty, hard work and merit amid the ongoing youth-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protests in Delhi.

In a post on X, recalling his father's lesson that 'failure is okay, cheating is not,' Tendulkar said students' disappointment over their hard work not being rewarded is understandable. He called on parents, teachers, schools, administrators and society to create an environment where integrity is encouraged, merit is rewarded, and young people remain motivated to pursue their aspirations.