‘Heartbreaking to see students suffer’: Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker speaks out on anti-leak protests, demands accountability | News off the field

Protest over NEET paper leak case in Mumbai (left) and Manu Bhaker

Double Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker expressed concern over student protests against the alleged leak of exam papers, saying every child deserves access to education, safety and a fair chance in life.In a post on social media, the Indian shooter said the issue goes beyond politics and called for accountability to protect the future of students.“At this moment, it’s about the lives of our nation’s future. It’s about us,” Bhaker wrote.“I am a student, and at one point we were all students. Every child deserves access to education, safety and a fair chance in life. These are not privileges – these are fundamental rights.”Speaking about the students and children who lost their lives, Bhaker said they deserve a better future.“They should have been the future of our country,” she wrote, adding that “their dreams, their potential and their future should have been protected.”Bhaker also said that the matter should not be viewed through a political lens and urged people to focus on issues that concern everyone.“This is not about promoting or opposing any political party. This is about standing up for what really matters — education, the environment, safety and responsibility. These issues affect all of us, regardless of our beliefs,” she said.The Olympic medalist said she was sad to see students facing such circumstances and stressed that they deserve better.“I am extremely proud to represent my country. That is why it is deeply heartbreaking to see students suffering like this. We owe them more. We owe every child a future where they can learn, grow and dream without fear,” she added.