Double Olympic Medallist Manu Bhaker Voices Concern Over Exam Paper Leaks
Manu Bhaker, a double Olympic medallist in shooting, has publicly expressed her concern regarding the challenges faced by students protesting against alleged examination paper leaks. Bhaker emphasised that all children deserve equal educational opportunities and a safe environment, sharing her views on social media platform X.
The athlete stated that the issue transcends political discussions and should be addressed as a matter of accountability and responsibility. She highlighted the importance of prioritising students’ futures and called for stronger measures to uphold the integrity of the education system. Bhaker’s comments come amidst ongoing protests concerning alleged examination paper leaks, with students demanding transparency and accountability.
Bhaker’s Stance on Student Protests
Bhaker conveyed deep empathy for the students affected by the controversy, describing their distress as heartbreaking. She believes that young individuals should not have to endure uncertainty or injustice while pursuing their academic aspirations. The shooter underscored that access to quality education and a secure environment is a fundamental right for every student.
In her social media post, Bhaker wrote, “At this point, it’s about the lives of the future of our nation. It’s about us. I am a student, and at one point, we were all students. Every child deserves access to education, safety, and a fair chance at life. These are not privileges—they are fundamental rights. The students and children who lost their lives were meant to be the future of our country. Their dreams, their potential, and their futures should have been protected.”
She further clarified her position, stating, “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.”
Bhaker urged people to avoid viewing the matter through a political lens, asserting that students’ concerns warrant attention irrespective of political affiliations. She maintained that the primary focus should be on safeguarding the aspirations and well-being of the nation’s youth, rather than allowing the issue to devolve into partisan debate.
“These issues affect every one of us, regardless of our beliefs. I take immense pride in representing my country. That is why it is deeply heartbreaking to see the students suffer like this. We owe them more. We owe every child a future where they can learn, grow, and dream without fear,” Bhaker added.
Her message has introduced a prominent sporting voice to the discussion, highlighting the necessity of collective efforts to protect students’ interests and restore confidence in the examination process.
Support for Sonam Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike
Bhaker’s support also extends to activist and educationist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on a hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. Wangchuk’s protest seeks reforms in India’s educational system and the resignation of the Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. He is participating in a protest organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which formed in response to alleged NEET paper leaks and irregularities.
Wangchuk was removed from the protest site at Jantar Mantar on Saturday, after being on a hunger strike for 20 days. Some members of student organisations have joined Wangchuk in his fast.
Manu Bhaker, a Haryana-born athlete, has achieved significant success in her career, including two Olympic medals, 23 medals at World Championships and World Cups, and 12 medals at Asian Games and Asian Championships. She won a gold medal in the women’s 25m pistol team event at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Bhaker is scheduled to participate in the Asian Games 2026. She has been named in India’s squad for the Women’s 10m air pistol and Women’s 25m sport pistol events.
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Source: hindustantimes.com
