New Delhi, July 25: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned from the Union Cabinet amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the NEET-UG 2026 examination.
In a detailed statement addressed to the nation’s youth, Pradhan said he had submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing concerns over the situation that arose following alleged irregularities in the May 3 NEET-UG exam.
He noted that the government acted swiftly by handing over the probe to the CBI, cancelling the examination, and conducting it again on June 21 with a “whole-of-government approach” involving Centre, states, and district administrations. Over 20 lakh students appeared for the परीक्षा, he said, adding that the results declared on July 16 reflected the success of the process.
However, Pradhan expressed concern over recent protests and developments, stating that certain elements attempted to mislead students, leading to unrest. Emphasising that the issue should not become a cause for legal complications or be exploited by “anti-national forces,” he said his resignation was intended to ensure that students can focus on their education and future.
Reiterating his commitment to public service, Pradhan thanked the Prime Minister, his Cabinet colleagues, and officials for their support, and said he would continue to work for the welfare of the youth and the nation.
