Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned from the Union Council of Ministers, saying he is taking moral responsibility in the wake of the controversy surrounding the NEET-UG 2026 examination.
He posted on X: “From day one, I took responsibility for this and never turned my back on the situation. My resolve was that we would not let any meritorious student’s prospects be ruined by the examination mafia, nor allow injustice to happen to any student.”
In a resignation letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pradhan said that he had remained committed to students, teachers and education reforms for over four decades. He expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for giving him the opportunity to serve the country and said his decision was guided by his commitment to safeguarding the interests of students and preserving public confidence in the education system.
Pradhan stated that after irregularities surfaced in the NEET-UG examination held on May 3, 2026, the Central Government acted swiftly by handing over the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). He noted that the examination was cancelled and a fresh test was conducted on June 21, 2026, with the participation of more than 20 lakh candidates.
According to the letter, the government also decided that from next year onwards, the NEET-UG examination will be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode to strengthen transparency and reduce the possibility of malpractice.
The former minister said the government’s primary objective was to ensure that every deserving student received a fair opportunity without being affected by examination-related irregularities. He added that the successful conduct of the re-examination was made possible through coordinated efforts involving the Central Government, state governments, district administrations, students, parents and other stakeholders.
Pradhan said he accepted responsibility from the very beginning of the controversy and remained engaged in resolving the situation. He reiterated that no talented student should lose opportunities because of examination malpractice or unfair practices.
Referring to the declaration of the NEET-UG 2026 results on July 16, he said the outcome reflected the success of students from diverse social and economic backgrounds, including many from underprivileged families.
However, he also expressed concern over developments during the protests, stating that attempts had been made to mislead students and create obstacles. He said these developments had caused him deep distress.
In his resignation letter, Pradhan reaffirmed his faith in India’s democratic values and described the country’s youth as its greatest strength and the architects of a developed India. He urged students to focus on their education and careers while ensuring that the situation does not create unnecessary legal complications or provide opportunities for forces seeking to divide society.
The outgoing minister thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his guidance, trust and continuous support. He also expressed gratitude to his Cabinet colleagues, ministry officials and staff members for their cooperation during his tenure.
Pradhan concluded by stating that public service would remain his highest priority and pledged to continue working for the welfare of the nation, Odisha and the aspirations of India’s youth with the blessings of Lord Jagannath.
