Nagpur NEET 2026 Protest: Demand Dharmendra Pradhan Resignation

Nagpur, July 19, 2026 — Thousands of students, parents, and activists gathered at Samvidhan Chowk and marched through central Nagpur today in a powerful demonstration against alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG 2026 examination. Protesters chanted slogans like “Isteefa do, isteefa do” (Resign, resign) and demanded the immediate resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, holding him accountable for the paper leak scandal that disrupted the futures of lakhs of aspirants nationwide.

The protest, supported by groups including the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and local student organizations, highlighted widespread anger over the National Testing Agency’s (NTA) handling of the medical entrance exam. The NEET-UG 2026, originally held on May 3, was cancelled on May 12 following reports of a question paper leak. A re-examination took place on June 21 under heightened security, but critics argue the episode exposed deep flaws in the examination system.

Students Voice Frustration and TraumaParticipants carried placards accusing the government of failing to secure one of India’s most critical entrance tests. Many shared personal stories of stress, financial loss, and mental health struggles caused by the cancellation and retest. One parent at the rally said, “My son’s NEET exam was cancelled. The entire family is devastated. We demand accountability from Dharmendra Pradhan.” Young protesters echoed calls for systemic reforms, transparency in exams like NEET, and an end to recurring leaks that have affected millions of students.

The demonstration saw heavy police deployment and traffic diversions in key areas of the city. Similar protests have erupted across India, with opposition parties like Congress launching nationwide campaigns such as “Chhatron Ki Goonj” to press for Pradhan’s resignation and overhaul of the examination system.

Broader Context of the NEET ControversyThe CBI is investigating the leak case, with arrests made across states including Maharashtra. Searches were conducted in Nagpur at the homes of NEET aspirants suspected of links to a Pune-based network that allegedly sold papers for large sums. No NTA officials have been directly implicated so far, but the scandal has triggered demands for abolishing or reforming the NTA.

The controversy has also been linked to student suicides, including a case in Nagpur where a 20-year-old aspirant cited uncertainty over the re-exam in her note.

Minister Pradhan has vowed strict action, announced a shift to computer-based testing for future NEET exams, and emphasized that no one involved will be spared. However, opposition leaders and student groups continue to criticize the government’s response as insufficient.

Calls for Nationwide ActionOrganizers of today’s Nagpur protest, aligned with broader movements like the CJP’s “Chalo Sansad Marg,” urged peaceful participation in upcoming marches in Delhi. They demand not only the minister’s resignation but also compensation for affected families, better mental health support for students, and a complete revamp to prevent future leaks.

As the protest in Nagpur concluded, participants vowed to sustain pressure until concrete reforms are implemented. The NEET row continues to dominate national discourse, underscoring the urgent need for trust and integrity in India’s competitive examination system.