Dharmendra Pradhan Resigns as Union Education Minister Amid Massive Student Protests

Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as Union Education Minister on 25 July 2026 amid nationwide student protests linked to alleged irregularities in competitive examinations. The resignation followed protests over the alleged paper leak in NEET-UG 2026 and demands for action on examination-related misconduct.

Union Council of Ministers

The Union Council of Ministers is the executive body that assists the Prime Minister under Article 74 of the Constitution of India. It includes Cabinet Ministers, Ministers of State, and Ministers of State with independent charge.

NEET-UG and Examination Administration

NEET-UG stands for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Undergraduate courses. It is a national-level entrance examination for admission to undergraduate medical and allied health courses in India.

Investigation and Test Mode

The Government of India handed over the NEET-UG 2026 investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation. It also cancelled the examination, announced a fresh date, and decided to conduct future examinations in Computer-Based Test mode.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Central Bureau of Investigation is India’s premier investigating agency for major criminal cases.
• Computer-Based Test mode uses digital terminals instead of paper answer sheets.
• NEET-UG is conducted for admission to MBBS, BDS, and other undergraduate medical courses.
• Article 74 of the Constitution provides for a Council of Ministers to aid and advise the President.

Student Protests in India

Student protests in India have often centred on examination transparency, recruitment fairness, and institutional accountability. Such protests have included demonstrations, sit-ins, and hunger strikes in several states and Union Territories.