India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah’s wife and sports presenter Sanjana Ganesan has voiced her support for the ongoing protests in Delhi, where demonstrators are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET paper leak, which reportedly claimed 20 lives.
Sanjana joined a growing list of celebrities and sportspersons who have reacted after the protest turned violent on July 20. The ICC presenter shared an Instagram Story by reposting another account’s message that described it as disturbing that Delhi Police allegedly used tear gas on protesters, including a six-year-old child.
What did Sanjana Ganesan share on Instagram?
Ahead of the Parliament session on July 20, thousands of supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) took to the streets in Delhi, demanding the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged examination paper leaks. The youth-led movement is also calling for wider reforms in India’s education and employment systems.
According to reports, protesters continued marching towards Parliament despite restrictions imposed by the police. Security personnel allegedly used batons and tear gas to stop the crowd after the Parliament complex was secured.
Several protesters claimed they were injured during the police action, while reports also suggested that some people in the crowd responded by throwing stones. The clashes have triggered strong reactions on social media, with several public figures and sportspersons expressing concern over the handling of the protest.
Meanwhile, activist Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike has crossed 20 days, and officials are reportedly monitoring his health closely.
When will Jasprit Bumrah return to action?
Bumrah is expected to return to international cricket during India’s two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins on August 15 at the Galle International Stadium.
The 32-year-old missed the deciding third ODI against England at Lord’s because of a knee injury. Before that, he impressed with the ball in the first two matches of the series. In the second ODI at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff, Bumrah dismissed Ben Duckett with the first ball of the innings and finished with figures of 10-0-45-0.
Although Sri Lanka are no longer considered one of the strongest Test sides, they remain a difficult team to beat in home conditions. India will need to produce their best cricket if they want to start the series on a winning note.