Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned on Monday, submitting an official resignation letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The decision followed mounting protests over the alleged leak of the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) examination papers, which has drawn nationwide dissent. Pradhan’s departure marks the first major ministerial exit over the issue.
According to the Times of India, Pradhan thanked the government for allowing him to serve in the education ministry for an extended period and reiterated his lifelong commitment to students and educational reform. He handed his resignation amid intense public demonstrations—particularly those from the ‘Cockroach Movement’ that have been marching in Delhi for weeks. The Guardian and Al Jazeera reported that the protests intensified after the leaked NEET papers were circulated, and the India Latest News outlet documented the anti‑government rallies that day.
The NEET paper leak has sparked widespread concern over academic integrity and fairness in India’s highest medical entrance exam, prompting teachers, students, and civil society groups to protest. Pradhan’s resignation underscores the government’s struggle to manage public trust in the education system.