Letter attributed to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan goes viral, cites NEET-UG 2026 irregularities
SUNIL NEGI
A letter purportedly written by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has surfaced on social media, in which he addresses “My Young Friends” and speaks about his commitment to education over the past four decades. In the letter, he states his belief that a strong, inclusive and visionary education system is the foundation of a strong nation. He says he deeply respects the aspirations, sentiments and legitimate expectations of the youth of the country, and that fulfilling the dreams of India’s young generation has been a moral commitment in both political and social life. He also expresses gratitude to the Prime Minister for the opportunity to serve the nation under his visionary leadership.
Referring to the NEET-UG examination held on 3rd May 2026, the letter claims that irregularities were found. It states that the Government of India took immediate cognizance, handed over the investigation to the CBI, cancelled the exam and announced a new date. It further mentions a decision to conduct the exam in Computer-Based Test mode from the following year.
The letter says the primary focus during this period was to conduct the examination smoothly for more than 20 lakh students through a whole-of-government approach, with an important role played by the central government, state governments and particularly district administrations. With the cooperation of students, guardians and parents, it claims the exam was successfully conducted on 21st June 2026.
It adds that from day one, responsibility was taken and the resolve was that no meritorious student’s future would be ruined due to the “exam mafia” and that no student would face injustice. The NEET-UG results declared on 16th July are described as satisfactory, with many meritorious students from poor backgrounds also succeeding.
The letter however alleges that during this time, some people in responsible positions tried to mislead students, which was deeply distressing.
The letter further states an unwavering faith in the power of democracy and deep respect for the aspirations, dreams and expectations of the youth, calling them not just the future of India but also the carriers, builders and architects of a new and developed India. Expressing sadness over the developments of the last 10 days, it says the issue is not about personal prestige. It asserts that India’s youth power is the country’s real strength and that the youth will not be allowed to get trapped in a web of confusion.
Citing the prevailing situation in the country, the letter says it should not be exploited by anti-national forces, and that the unity of the country must be maintained. It states that the future of even a single student should not get entangled in legal complexities, and that children should focus their time on studies and building their careers. On this basis, it claims that the resignation has been sent to the Hon’ble Prime Minister.
The letter concludes by expressing heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister for his guidance, trust and continuous support, and also thanks colleagues in the Council of Ministers, officials and staff of the Ministry, and all those with whom he had the privilege to work. It states that serving the nation is the highest priority in life and that commitment will continue. Invoking the blessings of Lord Jagannath, it says it will remain dedicated in the future as well to fulfilling the aspirations of Mother India, the people of Odisha and the youth of the country. The letter is signed “Yours, Dharmendra Pradhan”.
As of now, there is no official confirmation from the Ministry of Education or PMO regarding this resignation. The dates mentioned in the letter — May 3, 2026, June 21, 2026, and July 16 — are future date.
Viral Letter Claims Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Resigns, Government Yet To Confirm
