New Delhi: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned from the Union Cabinet on Saturday, marking a major political development amid sustained nationwide protests over the alleged NEET paper leak and examination irregularities.
Pradhan submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after days of mounting public and political pressure, with student groups and opposition parties demanding accountability for the controversy surrounding national-level entrance examinations.
Resignation follows weeks of protests
The resignation comes after widespread demonstrations by students and youth organisations across several parts of the country. Protesters had accused the government of failing to safeguard the integrity of competitive examinations and called for reforms in the examination system.
The issue also led to repeated disruptions in Parliament, with opposition parties insisting on Pradhan’s resignation and demanding a discussion on the examination controversy.
Focus shifts to education reforms
The Centre has already announced measures to strengthen the examination process, including action against officials allegedly linked to irregularities and a review of the functioning of the National Testing Agency (NTA).
The government is expected to announce further decisions regarding the Education Ministry and additional reforms aimed at restoring confidence in the country’s examination system.
The resignation is likely to have significant political and administrative implications as the Centre works to address growing concerns over transparency and accountability in national entrance examinations.