In a major political development, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned from the Union Cabinet on Saturday taking moral responsibility after weeks of nationwide protests over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and growing public outrage over the integrity of India’s examination system. His resignation is being viewed as one of the most significant political concessions by the Centre in response to sustained public protests.
The movement gained national attention when noted education reformer and environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk joined the protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar and began an indefinite hunger strike in solidarity with the students. As the fast continued, Wangchuk’s health deteriorated significantly. During the 17th day of his fast he was reportedly too weak to speak, had lost over 8.5 kg and required constant medical supervision, prompting appeals from opposition leaders, doctors and civil society groups urging him to end the hunger strike. His worsening health became a powerful symbol of the movement and intensified public pressure on the government.
After fasting for 26 days, Wangchuk ended his hunger strike following written assurances from the government that examination reforms and accountability would be discussed in Parliament and that no legal action would be taken against peaceful protesters. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also appealed to him to recover his health and regain the weight lost during the prolonged fast.
Student groups and protest leaders welcomed the resignation but reiterated that their movement would continue until comprehensive reforms are implemented to ensure transparency, fairness and accountability in national entrance examinations. The episode has emerged as a watershed moment in India’s education governance highlighting the growing demand for institutional accountability and the need to protect the credibility of high-stakes examinations that shape the careers of millions of students every year.