Agencies | New Delhi:
Amid massive student protests in Delhi, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday announced his resignation, stating that the interests of India’s youth and students must remain above politics.
In a detailed public letter, Pradhan said he was stepping down not out of concern for personal prestige, but to uphold accountability and safeguard the future of millions of students.
Expressing unwavering faith in the strength, aspirations and potential of India’s youth, he described them as the architects of a developed, self-reliant and prosperous India. While acknowledging that the developments of the past few days had caused him deep anguish, Pradhan said his decision was guided by the larger national interest rather than personal considerations.
Describing young people as the nation’s greatest asset, the outgoing minister said he was determined to ensure they did not become victims of political conflict. He appealed for unity and cautioned against allowing anti-national forces to exploit the prevailing situation, stressing that students’ futures must never be sacrificed for political gain.
Pradhan also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his guidance, trust and continued support during his tenure. He expressed gratitude to his Cabinet colleagues, ministry officials and staff for their cooperation, reiterating that service to the nation would remain his foremost commitment.
His resignation comes amid protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party at Jantar Mantar, where demonstrators have demanded accountability over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and irregularities in the CBSE’s on-screen marking process. The protesters have also called for comprehensive reforms in the conduct of public examinations.
