Dharmendra Pradhan resigns as Education Minister amid NEET paper leak controversy

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned on Friday, taking responsibility for the alleged leak of the NEET UG 2024 question paper. The resignation came after weeks of protests and debates in Parliament over the integrity of the medical entrance exam. Pradhan had offered to quit twice earlier, but his resignation was accepted only after the government faced growing pressure from opposition parties and student groups. The NEET paper leak, first reported in multiple states, had led to calls for a high-level investigation. In response, the government introduced a new bill in Parliament that proposes stricter jail terms, a task force to monitor exams, and faster trials for those involved in paper leaks. The opposition has demanded that the issue be taken up in Parliament for a detailed debate, alleging a cover-up. The resignation marks a significant political development, as Pradhan was a key figure in the government's education reforms. The outcome of the investigation and the effectiveness of the new bill remain uncertain.