India's Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill shared a message on social media on Thursday as protests over the alleged irregularities in the NEET exam continued across the country.

Gill did not directly mention the protests or the NEET controversy. Instead, he spoke about the importance of education, peaceful expression, and creating better opportunities for young people.

"As a young Indian, I believe our generation deserves every opportunity to learn, dream and shape the future we all aspire to," Gill wrote on X.

He also showed support for young people who choose peaceful ways to express their opinions.

"I have immense respect for every young person who believes in making their voice heard peacefully," he said.

Gill ended his message by stressing the value of education.

"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."

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Protests Continue

Gill's post came at a time when the protests, which began on July 20, were growing across different parts of the country. In some places, demonstrations turned violent, and police carried out lathi charges.

The protests are being led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) a pressure group, with support from environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on an indefinite fast.

The protesters are demanding the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. They hold him responsible for the NEET paper leak, which led authorities to conduct a re-test. The issue has also been linked to several student suicides, increasing calls for accountability and changes to the examination system.

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Irfan Pathan Reacts

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan also shared his thoughts on the controversy. He spoke about the impact the alleged paper leak has had on students and their families.

"Every student puts in years of hard work for a better future and their families make sacrifices along the way too. No paper leak should ever be allowed to take that hope," Pathan wrote on X.

He said he trusted the authorities to make sure every student got a fair opportunity and hoped stronger steps would be taken to stop such incidents in the future.

"I have full faith that our country's authorities will ensure every one of them gets a fair chance. I also hope every possible step is taken to make sure this never happens again."

Pathan ended his message by saying, "Our students are our future. Protect their dreams."

Gill Avoids Taking a Political Stand

Although Gill's message came while the protests were making headlines, he did not directly mention the demonstrations, the alleged paper leak, or the demands of the protesters.

He also did not name any political party, organisation, or protest group. Instead, he focused on the importance of education, peaceful expression, and putting students' interests first.