Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation did not stem from a single negative report but rather from a year filled with challenges. On February 9, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) issued a routine circular announcing that Class 12 answer sheets would now be evaluated through digital means rather than being sent to regional centres for paper-based evaluation. This decision, seemingly mundane at the time, would have significant implications in the months to follow.

May, The NEET Exam Controversy

The issues began to surface with the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) on May 3, when irregularities prompted the cancellation of the exam. Given that more than two million students appear for NEET annually, this incident escalated quickly, warranting the involvement of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe the circumstances surrounding the exam’s failure. A new date for the exam was announced amid growing concern.

As the fallout continued, the release of Class 12 results on May 13 highlighted further problems. Under the newly implemented On-Screen Marking system, students reported various discrepancies, including blurred scans and missing answer sheets. One 18-year-old student drew attention to these irregularities via social media, leading to backlash and accusations against him, reflecting the public’s frustration with how the CBSE handled the complaints.

By late May, Pradhan publicly accepted responsibility for the NEET scandal, acknowledging a “breach in the chain of command” during a review meeting on May 28. While he assured that issues would be addressed, a promised re-evaluation portal was delayed multiple times, causing further frustration among students.

June, Rescheduling and Protests

Despite the tumultuous events of May, the rescheduled NEET-UG exam took place on June 21 without incident, attracting over twenty lakh students. The administration claimed a coordinated effort with state governments had mitigated earlier problems. However, Pradhan continued to face scrutiny, stating in interviews that he held himself accountable for the earlier mishaps.

On June 24, as protests related to the NEET issues gained momentum, Pradhan’s statements highlighted the ongoing tensions between the government and the student body. The calls for accountability contributed to a growing dissent against the CBSE and the Ministry of Education.

By mid-July, widespread anger culminated in a movement named the Cockroach Janta Party, which called for action at Jantar Mantar. Protesters from various student unions and opposition parties amplified their calls for Pradhan’s resignation, reflecting broader public discontent.

July, Escalating Pressures

On July 20, protests escalated significantly when demonstrators gathered in greater numbers for a Chalo Sansad march. This event turned confrontational as police intervened, reportedly using batons and tear gas to disperse the crowd, resulting in injuries to over a hundred individuals. The incident intensified public outcry against police conduct and elevated calls for Pradhan’s resignation from mere slogans to a resonant demand.

On July 25, after months of pressure and increasing demonstrations, Pradhan submitted his resignation to the Prime Minister. He publicised his decision on X, citing the need to take moral responsibility and expressing gratitude for his time in office. This announcement marked a significant turning point, as it encapsulated a year of turmoil arising from multiple scandals and responses by the educational organisation.

The resignation encapsulated the challenges faced by Pradhan over the past year, ultimately culminating from a series of events that began with the initial misstep concerning the NEET exam. This year would become a notable chapter in Modi’s government, elevated by students’ increased awareness of educational governance and accountability.

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