Shock Resignation? Dharmendra Pradhan Quits as Union Education Minister Amid Massive Student Protests
In the face of the current protests over the NEET paper leak, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan submitted his resignation from the Council of Ministers on Saturday.
Ankush Pandey
In the midst of the current protests over the NEET paper leak, Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan submitted his resignation from the Council of Ministers on Saturday.
In a letter to his "young friends," Pradhan announced that, in light of the circumstances at Jantar Mantar and throughout the nation, he has submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
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For more than 40 years, I have been committed to education reform, teachers, and students. I have always held the view that a robust, inclusive, and forward-thinking educational system is the cornerstone of a powerful country. I have the utmost respect for the hopes, feelings, and expectations of the nation's young people. We have all made a moral commitment in our political and social lives to realise the aspirations of India's youth.
I thank the Hon'ble Prime Minister for providing me with the chance to serve the country under his inspiring leadership," Pradhan stated.
— Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) July 25, 2026
"Considering the situation that has developed at Jantar Mantar and across the country - that anti- national forces should not take advantage of this situation, that the unity of the country should be preserved, that not even a single student's future should get entangled in legal complications, and that our children should devote their time to studies and focus on building their careers - I have sent my resignation to the Hon'ble Prime Minister." he added
"However, irregularities came to light in the NEET-UG examination held on May 3, 2026," Pradhan stated. "The government took immediate cognisance when irregularities came to light." The Indian government immediately became aware of this, turned over the inquiry to the CBI, postponed the examination, and set a new date for the re-examination. Additionally, it was determined that the exam will be administered in CBT (Computer-Based Test) mode starting the next year," he continued.
Pradhan also charged "certain individuals" with deceiving students in his letter.
"From the very first day, I took responsibility and never turned away from this situation. My resolve was that we would not let any meritorious student's chances be ruined because of an examination mafia, and that no injustice would be done to any student. The NEET-UG results declared on 16 July were satisfactory, with many meritorious students from poor backgrounds also achieving success," he said
"However, during this time too, certain individuals occupying positions of responsibility tried to mislead students and create obstruction. which caused me deep anguish. I have always been ar unwavering believer in the strength of our democracy, and I have always held deep respect for the aspirations, dreams and expectations of the youth. They are not only India's future, but alsa the bearers, builders, and architects of a new ano developed India," he added
"Watching the events of the last 10 days has saddened me. This is not a matter of persona reputation for me. The youth power of India is the real strength of this country. My resolve is that we will not let the country's youth get caught in a web of confusion." he further said
