NEW DELHI, July 25, 2026 – In a dramatic development amid escalating student protests across the country, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan tendered his resignation from the Council of Ministers on Saturday, citing the need to preserve national unity and protect students' futures from legal entanglements.

The resignation comes in the wake of widespread agitation over irregularities in the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG) 2026, with thousands of students protesting at Jantar Mantar and other locations nationwide.

"Anti-National Forces" Should Not Benefit, Says Pradhan

In a letter addressed to "young friends," Pradhan stated that he sent his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after considering the developing situation.

"Considering the situation that has developed at Jantar Mantar and across the country — that anti-national forces should not take advantage of this situation, that the unity of the country should be preserved, that not even a single student's future should get entangled in legal complications, and that our children should devote their time to studies and focus on building their careers — I have sent my resignation to the Hon'ble Prime Minister," Pradhan wrote.

Government Action on NEET Irregularities

The controversy stems from the NEET-UG examination held on May 3, 2026, which was marred by alleged paper leaks. The government responded by:

• Ordering a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the irregularities

• Cancelling the examination outright

• Announcing a fresh date for re-examination

• Deciding to transition the exam to Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode from next year

Pradhan maintained that the results declared on July 16 were "satisfactory" and noted that many meritorious students from poor backgrounds had succeeded.

"Deep Anguish" Over Obstruction

The outgoing minister expressed disappointment over attempts by certain individuals in positions of responsibility to mislead students and create obstructions.

"Watching the events of the last 10 days has saddened me. This is not a matter of personal reputation for me. The youth power of India is the real strength of this country," he said, adding that his resolve was to prevent the country's youth from being caught in a "web of confusion."

Pradhan, who has been associated with education reform for over four decades, thanked Prime Minister Modi for the opportunity to serve the nation.

What Happens Next?

As of this report, there has been no official communication from the Prime Minister's Office regarding the acceptance of Pradhan's resignation or the appointment of a successor. Student protests continue at several locations, with demonstrators demanding a full investigation and systemic reforms in the examination process.