Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns over NEET protest

New Delhi: The Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned over ongoing NEET protests.

Announcing his resignation on X, Pradhan stated, "My young friends, for more than four decades, I have been dedicated to students, teachers, and education reforms. I have always believed that a strong, inclusive, and visionary 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 our political and social 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 came to light in the NEET-UG examination held on May 3, 2026. Taking immediate cognizance of the matter, the Government of India handed over the investigation to the CBI, cancelled the examination, and announced the date for the re-examination. Along with this, it was decided that from next year onwards, the examination would be conducted in the Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode."

"During this period, our foremost priority was to ensure the smooth conduct of the examination for more than 2 million students. For this, work was carried out under a whole-of-government approach. Along with the Government of India, the state governments, especially the district administrations, played an important role. With the cooperation of students, guardians, and parents, the examination was successfully conducted on June 21, 2026. From the very first day, I took responsibility for the matter and never turned away from the situation. It was my resolve that we would not allow the prospects of any meritorious student to be ruined because of the examination mafia, and that no student would be subjected to injustice. The NEET-UG results declared on July 16 were satisfactory, with many meritorious students from economically weaker backgrounds also achieving success. However, even during this period, individuals occupying responsible positions tried to mislead many students and create obstacles, which caused me deep anguish," he said.

"I have always believed in the strength of our democracy and have deep respect for the aspirations, dreams, and expectations of the youth. They are not only the future of India but also the carriers, builders, and architects of a new and developed India. The events of the past 10 days have saddened me. This is not a matter of personal prestige. The youth power of India is the country's real strength. My resolve is to not let the youth power fall into the trap of confusion. Considering that anti-national forces should not take advantage of the situation at Jantar Mantar and across the country, that the unity of the country should remain, that not a single student's future should be entangled in legal complexities, and that our children should focus on their studies and careers, I have sent my resignation to the Prime Minister," Pradhan added.

"I express my heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister for his guidance, trust, and continuous support. I also thank all my colleagues in the Council of Ministers, officials and employees of the ministry, and all those with whom I had the privilege of working. National service is the highest priority in my life, and I will always remain dedicated to it. With the blessings of Lord Jagannath, I will continue to dedicate myself in every possible way to the service of Mother India, the people of Odisha, and the aspirations of the country's youth," he further said.