Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned amid the NEET-UG exam irregularities controversy, citing accountability and national interest. He said he was deeply pained by recent developments and stepped down to protect students’ future, uphold exam integrity, and prevent anti-national forces from exploiting the situation.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday announced his resignation from the Union Cabinet, stating that he was “deeply pained” by the developments over the past ten days surrounding the controversy over examination irregularities. Emphasising accountability and the need to safeguard the future of students, Pradhan said his decision was taken to ensure that anti-national forces do not exploit the prevailing situation and to uphold the integrity of India’s examination system.
The resignation comes against the backdrop of nationwide protests demanding strict action against those responsible for paper leaks and alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, particularly the NEET-UG examination. Public outrage over the issue had intensified, with calls for accountability and comprehensive reforms in the country’s examination process.
In his resignation letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pradhan reiterated his lifelong commitment to education and the aspirations of India’s youth. He said that for more than four decades, he had devoted himself to students, teachers, and educational reforms, believing that a strong and inclusive education system forms the foundation of a developed nation.
“I deeply respect the aspirations, sentiments, and legitimate expectations of the country’s youth. Realising the dreams of India’s young generation has always been a moral commitment in our political and social lives,” Pradhan stated. He also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for entrusting him with the responsibility of serving as the Union Education Minister.
Addressing the NEET-UG controversy, Pradhan said the government acted swiftly after the alleged examination irregularities came to light. According to him, the investigation was immediately handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the examination was cancelled, and a fresh date for re-examination was announced. He also confirmed that from next year onwards, the examination will be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode to strengthen transparency and security.
Pradhan highlighted that the government’s priority throughout the crisis was to ensure the smooth conduct of the examination for over 20 lakh students across the country. He credited the coordinated efforts of the Central Government, state governments, district administrations, students, and parents for the successful completion of the re-examination on June 21, 2026.
He further stated that he had accepted full responsibility for the situation from the very beginning and remained determined to ensure that deserving students did not suffer due to the activities of the “exam mafia.” According to him, protecting meritorious students and ensuring fairness in the examination process remained his foremost concern.
Expressing disappointment over recent developments, Pradhan alleged that certain individuals occupying responsible positions attempted to create confusion during the announcement of re-examination results and misled students. He described these developments as deeply distressing.
“I am pained by the events of the past ten days. This is not a matter of personal prestige for me,” he wrote, adding that his decision was guided solely by national interest and the welfare of students.
Referring to protests held at Jantar Mantar and in different parts of the country, Pradhan said his resignation was aimed at preventing anti-national elements from exploiting the situation, preserving national unity, and ensuring that students’ futures do not become entangled in prolonged legal proceedings. He stressed that students should remain focused on their education and career development rather than uncertainty surrounding examinations.
Pradhan concluded his letter by thanking Prime Minister Modi, members of the Union Council of Ministers, and all those who supported him during his tenure. He reaffirmed that service to the nation would remain the highest priority of his life and pledged to continue working for the aspirations of India’s youth, the people of Odisha, and the country as a whole.
Following the announcement, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Nitin Nabin praised Pradhan’s decision, describing it as an example of integrity and selfless public service. In a post on social media platform X, Nabin highlighted Pradhan’s significant contribution to the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and other education reforms during his tenure.
“Prioritising larger national interests, his decision to step down reflects the highest standards of integrity and selfless service in public life,” Nabin said, adding that the BJP stands firmly with Pradhan.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also lauded Pradhan’s leadership, stating that he carried out every responsibility with dedication, honesty, and commitment. She credited him with successfully implementing NEP 2020, promoting education in Indian languages, expanding technical and higher education, and creating new opportunities for students.
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Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant echoed similar sentiments, recalling Pradhan’s decades-long public service, beginning from his student activism to his roles in the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry and later the Ministry of Education. Sawant said Pradhan’s leadership in implementing the National Education Policy would leave a lasting impact on India’s education ecosystem and expressed confidence that he would continue contributing to the nation’s development under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership.
The resignation has emerged as one of the most significant political developments amid the ongoing debate over examination reforms, accountability, and the protection of students’ interests in India’s education system.
