In a major political development, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday announced his resignation, saying the decision was taken in the larger interest of students and the nation. In a two-page public letter addressed to the youth of India, Pradhan said he was stepping down to ensure that the ongoing protests and controversy surrounding the NEET-UG 2026 examination do not derail the academic future of millions of students or become a tool for "anti-national forces."
The resignation comes amid widespread public outrage over alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG 2026 examination, which triggered protests at Delhi's Jantar Mantar and sparked a nationwide debate on the integrity of India's competitive examination system.
"Students Should Focus on Their Future"
In his letter, Pradhan emphasised that India's youth represent the nation's greatest strength and should not become victims of political conflicts or misinformation.
"I have always believed that the youth are not only India's future but also the architects of a developed India," he wrote. "My resolve has always been that they should not be trapped in politics of deception and confusion."
Referring to the protests in Delhi, Pradhan said the evolving situation convinced him that stepping aside was the most appropriate course of action.
"As the situation at Jantar Mantar and elsewhere developed, I felt that in the national interest, I should step aside so that students do not get entangled in unnecessary political controversies. Our children should devote their time to education and building their careers," he stated.
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Takes Responsibility for NEET-UG Crisis
Pradhan acknowledged that the irregularities reported during the NEET-UG 2026 examination were unfortunate and reiterated that the government had acted swiftly after the allegations surfaced.
According to the letter, the Centre immediately transferred the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), ordered a fresh examination, and initiated reforms aimed at strengthening the examination process, including a gradual shift towards Computer-Based Tests (CBT).
He said the government's primary objective throughout the crisis was to ensure that over 20 lakh students could take the examination in a fair and transparent manner.
"The examination was successfully conducted through a whole-of-government approach with the cooperation of the Centre, state governments, district administrations, parents, and students," he wrote, adding that the examination held on 21 June 2026 and the declaration of results on 16 July were completed successfully.
"Never Shied Away From Responsibility"
Defending his handling of the crisis, Pradhan said he accepted responsibility from the very beginning and never attempted to evade accountability.
"My commitment was to ensure that no deserving student suffered because of the mistakes of a few individuals and that innocent candidates' futures were protected," he wrote.
He also noted that the NEET-UG results demonstrated the success of many students from rural and economically weaker backgrounds, calling it a positive outcome despite the controversy.
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Thanks Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ministry Officials
Pradhan used the letter to express gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his guidance, trust, and continuous support during his tenure.
He also thanked his Cabinet colleagues, officials and staff of the Ministry of Education, and everyone who worked with him in implementing education reforms.
Calling public service the highest priority of his life, Pradhan said he would continue working for the nation, Odisha, and the aspirations of India's youth even after leaving office.
"With the blessings of Lord Jagannath, I will continue dedicating myself in every possible way to serving Bharat Mata, the people of Odisha, and fulfilling the aspirations of the country's youth," he concluded.
