Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned on Saturday after weeks of massive student protests in Delhi seeking his resignation over exam irregularities, particularly the NEET-UG paper leak.
Taking to Twitter, he shared a lengthy note. He wrote, "My young friends, for more than four decades, I have remained dedicated to students, teachers, and education reforms. I have always believed that a strong, inclusive, and forward-looking education system is the foundation of a strong nation. I deeply respect the aspirations, emotions, and legitimate expectations of the youth of our country. Fulfilling the dreams of India's young generation has always been a moral commitment in my political and public life. I express my gratitude to the Hon'ble Prime Minister for giving me the opportunity to serve the nation under his visionary leadership. However, irregularities were found in the NEET-UG examination held on May 3, 2026. The Government of India took immediate cognisance of the matter, handed over the investigation to the CBI, cancelled the examination, and announced a fresh examination date. It was also decided that, from next year onwards, the examination would be conducted in CBT (Computer-Based Test) mode. During this period, our foremost priority was to ensure that the examination for more than 2 million students was conducted smoothly. A whole-of-government approach was adopted for this purpose. Along with the Central Government, state governments—especially district administrations—played an important role. With the cooperation of students, parents, and guardians, the examination was successfully conducted on June 21, 2026. From the very first day, I accepted responsibility and never turned away from the situation. My resolve was that no deserving student's future should be ruined because of the examination mafia, and that no student should face injustice. The NEET-UG results announced on July 16 were satisfactory, with many meritorious students from economically weaker backgrounds also achieving success. However, during this period, it deeply pained me to see individuals holding responsible positions trying to mislead many students and create obstacles. I have always had unwavering faith in the strength of our democracy and have always respected the aspirations, dreams, and expectations of our youth. They are not only India's future but also the torchbearers, builders, and architects of a new and developed India. The developments of the past ten days have saddened me. For me, this is not a matter of personal prestige. The strength of India's youth is the true strength of this nation. It is my resolve not to let the country's youth fall prey to confusion and misinformation.
He added, "Keeping in mind the situation at Jantar Mantar, I have written to the Hon'ble Prime Minister requesting that anti-national forces should not be allowed to take advantage of the current situation, that the unity of the country should remain intact, that no student's future should become entangled in legal complications, and that our children should devote their time to studies and focus on building their careers. I express my heartfelt gratitude to the Hon'ble Prime Minister for his guidance, trust, and constant support. I also thank my respected colleagues in the Council of Ministers, the officers and staff of the Ministry, and everyone with whom I had the privilege of working. Service to the nation has always been the highest priority of my life, and I will remain committed to it. With the blessings of Lord Jagannath, I will continue to dedicate myself in every possible way to fulfilling the aspirations of Mother India, the people of Odisha, and the youth of our country."
Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday backed the students protesting at Jantar Mantar, saying they have three "non-negotiable" demands. Addressing a press conference after meeting students on a hunger strike over the alleged NEET paper leak, Gandhi said the first demand was the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, whom he described as "corrupt, incompetent and unfit for the role."
