In a dramatic turn of events, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has tendered his resignation to the Prime Minister, taking moral responsibility following weeks of turmoil, protests at Jantar Mantar, and widespread controversy surrounding the NEET-UG examination process.
In a detailed, two-page public statement, Pradhan expressed deep anguish over the developments of the past ten days, emphasizing that the ongoing situation was a matter of national concern rather than personal prestige.
Addressing the youth, Pradhan outlined the timeline of events leading up to his decision. Following irregularities detected during the NEET-UG examination conducted on May 3, 2026, the government initiated a CBI probe, cancelled the affected exam, and announced new dates. To prevent future lapses, the government also decided to transition the exam to a Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode starting next year.
The re-examination was successfully conducted on June 21, 2026, involving over 20 lakh students through a coordinated “whole of government” approach. The results declared on July 16 saw meritorious students from underprivileged backgrounds securing top ranks.
Despite the successful re-examination, ongoing protests and political friction continued to brew across the country, particularly at Jantar Mantar in the national capital. Pradhan raised concerns over “anti-national forces” taking advantage of the unrest and responsible individuals misleading students for vested interests.
“To ensure that national unity remains intact, that no student’s future gets tangled in legal complexities, and that our youth can focus on their studies and career goals, I have sent my resignation to the Honorable Prime Minister,” Pradhan stated.
Pradhan, who highlighted his four-decade-long association with student welfare and education reform, expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister, cabinet colleagues, ministry officials, and staff for their support during his tenure.
He reiterated his unwavering resolve against the “exam mafia” and vowed to continue serving the nation, the people of Odisha, and the youth under the blessings of Lord Jagannath.
On the resignation of Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Founding President of Cockroach Janta Party, Abhijeet Dipke says, “Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned. And this resignation is proof that if you people are not afraid, if you people do not bow down to this government, then we can take the resignation of anyone.”
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