Mirabai Chanu Backs Delhi Student Protests Over NEET Issue, Plans Jantar Mantar Visit After CWG

Olympic silver medallist and Indian weightlifting star Saikhom Mirabai Chanu has extended her support to the students protesting against the NEET paper leak. She said the protesters are "doing a good job" and added that she would try to visit Delhi’s Jantar Mantar after completing her Commonwealth Games commitments.

Speaking during the ongoing CWG 2026, Mirabai said athletes do keep track of what is happening in the country, but their busy training schedules often make it difficult to follow every development closely.

“I do keep myself informed about what is happening in India--what is going on in sports and in other areas as well. But we cannot follow everything because we also have limited time and demanding training sessions. Taking on too much mental load is not good for athletes. There are many good things happening in the country, and there are also some unfortunate developments. When we see or hear about such incidents, we do not feel good and naturally wonder why they are happening,” Chanu told IANS.

Speaking about the student protests in Delhi, Mirabai said, “I have heard about what is happening in Delhi, including the student protests. I feel that they are doing a good job.”

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When asked if she would personally visit the protest site at Jantar Mantar, the weightlifter said she would consider it after focusing on her competition.

“I will see. Right now I will focus more on the game. After that I will think.”

Students have been holding protests in Delhi over the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak issue and other examination-related concerns. They have been demanding action from authorities and changes in the system to rebuild trust among students. The protests at Jantar Mantar have seen participation from students, parents and supporters from different parts of the country.

Earlier, Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra also spoke about the need to improve India's education system. In a social media post, Bindra shared his views on the importance of creating a stronger and more reliable education structure.

“I have never considered myself a political person. But I do believe that some issues belong to all of us, regardless of where we stand. Education is one of them. The measure of a nation is found not only in its economy or its achievements, but in the opportunities it creates for its young people. An education system that inspires confidence, rewards merit and nurtures curiosity is one of a nation’s greatest strengths."

"I hope we can all unite and work together to continually strengthen our education system, so that it remains a source of opportunity, innovation and hope for generations to come.”