CJP Students Protest: From Sachin to Bindra, Indian athletes who have voiced their support
Several Indian athletes have supported the CJP Students’ Protest.
Over the past few weeks, major political unrest has gripped the nation. It all began following remarks attributed to the Chief Justice of India that sparked widespread criticism, leading to the formation of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), led by 30-year-old political communications strategist Abhijeet Dipke.
The protest was initially launched on behalf of the Gen Z population of the country, who were termed as “cockroaches” and “parasites” by the CJI when referring to some unemployed youth. Moreover, anger was fuelled after controversies surrounding the NEET re-exam and CBSE result declaration.
The movement intensified on July 20, when violence erupted between protesters and Delhi police. The CJP has been demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, and activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been the face of the party, was allegedly taken to the hospital by the Delhi police.
The recent violence has garnered major media attention, with celebrities asking the government not to resort to aggressive action against the youth of the country. However, the police authorities have maintained that CJP and their workers attacked the on-duty officers, as a result of which the situation went out of hand.
Recently, Salman Khan too tweeted in support of the students and wished for a peaceful solution to the ongoing crisis. In this article, we will take a look at the sportspersons who have raised their voices during this major political conflict.
Indian athletes who have supported the CJP Students’ Protest
Bajrang Punia
Olympic medallist Bajrang Punia has been a vocal critic of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and given his role in Congress as a party leader, his support for the CJP comes as no surprise. On July 22, he joined the protest at Jantar Mantar, standing in solidarity with the affected students.
“Listen to these children. The government keeps making committees, then divides people after the crowd leaves. This time everyone must unite and fight”, said Punia.
“This is the country’s reality. Don’t reduce it to politics. A student exists in every home, and this fight is for everyone’s future.”
Yuvraj Singh
India’s 2011 World Cup-winning hero, Yuvraj Singh, came out in support of the Indian students, requesting both the Indian Government and the CJP protestors to resolve their ongoing conflict peacefully through constructive dialogue
“Every child, student, woman, and man should have the opportunity to learn in peace, grow with safety, and fulfill their dreams. Your well-being is the foundation of a better India. Let us all come together to create a society of care, opportunity, and hope. Through dialogue, we can find an amicable solution for the future of India”, Yuvraj wrote on his Instagram story.
Sahal Abdul Samad
Sahal Abdul Samad is part of India’s national football team and also plays for Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League. The midfielder strongly condemned the use of alleged violence on protestors by the Delhi police and opined that the voices of students must not be suppressed.
“These are young people who came peacefully, asking to be heard and they’re being answered with force. Nothing justifies lathis on a generation that brought nothing but its voice. Whatever anyone thinks of the issue behind the protest, this cannot be the response to it. A peaceful protest is not a threat”, Samad posted on his Instagram story.
Shikhar Dhawan
The former Indian left-handed opener Shikhar Dhawan expressed his support for Indian students on his social media account. He also reiterated his faith in the Indian government to make the right decision during these difficult times.
“Our youth are the future of our country. It is important to understand their dreams, but at the same time, it is equally important to have patience during difficult times and maintain faith in the country’s institutions and government. I believe that the solution to every challenge comes from patience. India has always moved forward and will continue to move forward in the future.”
Sachin Tendulkar
India’s legendary player Sachin Tendulkar also spoke about the current situation concerning the country’s students and emphasised the importance of a stable education system, which plays a major role in shaping the nation’s future.
Abhinav Bindra
India’s first-ever individual Olympic gold medalist, Abhinav Bindra, was one of the first athletes to voice his support for the students.
Manu Bhaker
India’s 2-time Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker raised concerns about the future of Indian youngsters six days ago, echoing the need for a uniform and fair education system.
Sania Mirza
India’s lawn tennis legend Sania Mirza posted on Instagram:
Shubman Gill
India’s current Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill wrote on his Instagram story:
“As a young Indian, I believe our generation deserves every opportunity to learn, dream and shape the future we all aspire to. I have immense respect for every young person who believes in making their voice heard peacefully. 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.”
Mohammad Kaif
Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif appealed to the Delhi police to stop violence against students and wished for a speedy solution to this rapidly escalating crisis.
“As a father it pains me to see students being roughed up by police for protesting over flaws in education. Kids getting beaten with lathis on the streets of Delhi should stop. I hope a solution comes up very soon”
Ishan Kishan
Shortly after Sonam Wangchuk ended his fast, Indian wicket-keeper Ishan Kishan posted an Instagram story late at night, saying:
“My thoughts are with every student and family dealing with uncertainty. Hoping things are resolved soon, and wishing everyone fairness and the opportunity to move forward.”
What began as a protest to solve students’ problems affected by paper leaks has now turned into a full-fledged political movement, with opposition party leaders using the opportunity to take digs at the government.
As this is a developing story, it remains to be seen what solution the government ultimately arrives at and whether any of the CJP’s demands will be honoured.
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Aniruddh Seshadri Iyer is a passionate sports journalist at Khel Now, specializing in tennis and Olympic sports. An engineer by training, he found his storytelling passion through iconic Grand Slam and Olympic moments. Known for sharp analysis and insightful coverage, he draws inspiration from Novak Djokovic’s resilience. Outside journalism, he enjoys reading, traveling, and playing the guitar.