Dharmendra Pradhan Says Resignation Was for Students and National Interest

New Delhi: Former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has issued an emotional message to students following his resignation amid nationwide protests over alleged irregularities in recruitment and entrance examinations. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Pradhan said his resignation was not about personal prestige but about protecting the future of India's youth and safeguarding national unity.

In his message, Pradhan said he has devoted more than four decades to students, teachers, and educational reforms, adding that he firmly believes a strong, inclusive, and forward-looking education system is the foundation of a prosperous nation.

Referring to the alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination held on May 3, 2026, he said the central government immediately ordered a CBI investigation, cancelled the examination, announced a fresh test, and decided that from next year the examination would be conducted in a computer-based test (CBT) format.

He said the government's highest priority throughout the crisis was to ensure a fair examination for more than 2 million candidates. According to Pradhan, the re-examination was successfully conducted on June 21 through the coordinated efforts of the central and state governments, district administrations, students, and parents.

The former minister stated that he accepted full responsibility from the very beginning and remained committed to ensuring that no deserving student lost opportunities because of examination malpractice.

He also noted that the NEET-UG results, published on July 16, reflected the success of many talented students from underprivileged backgrounds. However, he expressed disappointment that certain individuals and groups continued to spread misinformation during the process.

Explaining his decision to resign, Pradhan said he wanted to prevent the ongoing protests, including those at Jantar Mantar, from being exploited by anti-national forces, while also ensuring that students would not face legal complications and could focus on their education and future careers.

Concluding his statement, Pradhan thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his trust and guidance, expressed gratitude to his cabinet colleagues and ministry officials, and reaffirmed his commitment to serving India, the people of Odisha, and the country's youth in the years ahead.