Manu Bhaker addresses exam paper leak protests, stresses accountability over politics

By Rohit Verma — 18 July 2026 — 3 min read

Double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker has voiced her concerns regarding the ongoing protests over alleged examination paper leaks, emphasising that the issue transcends political affiliations. Bhaker stated that every student deserves equal opportunities in education and a secure environment, highlighting that these are fundamental rights, not privileges.

Speaking on social media platform X, Bhaker, a shooter, conveyed that the matter is about the future of the nation’s youth and requires accountability and responsibility. She urged that the future of students should be the primary focus and called for stronger measures to ensure the integrity of the education system.

Bhaker’s Stance on Student Welfare

Bhaker expressed deep sympathy for the students affected by the controversy, describing their distress as heartbreaking. She believes that young people should not have to face uncertainty or injustice while pursuing their academic goals. According to Bhaker, access to quality education and a safe environment is a basic right for every student.

She further elaborated that the issue is not about supporting or opposing any political party. Instead, it is about advocating for critical matters such as education, the environment, safety, and accountability. Bhaker maintained that these issues impact everyone, regardless of their beliefs.

“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,” Bhaker wrote on X.

She added, “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.”

Call for Non-Political Approach

Bhaker urged the public to consider the matter outside of a political context, arguing that students’ concerns warrant attention irrespective of political leanings. She stressed that the focus should remain on safeguarding the aspirations and well-being of the country’s youth, rather than allowing the issue to become a 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 stated.

Her message has brought a notable sporting voice to the discussion, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts to protect students’ interests and restore confidence in the examination process. Bhaker has won two medals at the Olympic Games, 23 medals at the World Championships and World Cups, and 12 medals at the Asian Games and Asian Championships.

Context of the Protests

Bhaker’s remarks come amidst ongoing protests concerning alleged examination paper leaks, with students demanding transparency and accountability. Activist and educationist Sonam Wangchuk has been involved in a hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, advocating for reforms in the educational system and the resignation of the Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Wangchuk was removed from the protest site on Saturday after being on a hunger strike for 20 days. He has been protesting alongside the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), an online satirical movement that began in May to protest against paper leaks. Members of student organisations have also joined Wangchuk in his fast.

Bhaker is scheduled to participate in the Asian Games 2026, which will take place from September 19 to October 4. She has been named in India’s squad for the Women’s 10m air pistol and Women’s 25m sport pistol events.

Source: hindustantimes.com