"Failure is okay, cheating is not": Sachin Tendulkar speaks up on NEET row

Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar issued an emotional statement on Thursday addressing the ongoing student protests surrounding the NEET-UG examination paper leak controversies. Taking to social media platform X, Tendulkar acknowledged the deep frustration and disappointment felt by young aspirants across the country whose hard work was undermined by examination irregularities. Recalling core principles taught by his late father, who was a university professor, Tendulkar highlighted that "failure is okay, cheating is not" and cautioned against shortcuts in society.

The former India captain emphasized that adults, parents, teachers, and administrators share a collective responsibility to shape a culture where integrity and effort are prioritized over shortcuts. He warned that prioritizing outcomes over genuine hard work discourages youth and damages meritocracy. Tendulkar stressed that society must collectively ensure that young students never feel their dedication and honest efforts have gone unrewarded.

His remarks come as demonstrations led by student groups at Jantar Mantar and across New Delhi continue to demand systemic reforms and accountability from educational authorities. Joining several other prominent sports personalities who have recently voiced support for protesting youth, Tendulkar expressed confidence that stakeholders will find solutions to safeguard children's aspirations and strengthen the nation's academic future.