His resignation came after more than a month of student protests over the 2026 NEET-UG paper leak. Demonstrators demanded accountability over the exam leak and called for Pradhan’s resignation. NEET-UG paper leak controversiesThe biggest challenge during Pradhan’s tenure was the NEET-UG paper leak issue. The issue returned in 2026 after the NEET-UG exam held on May 3 was cancelled because of another paper leak. Tamil Nadu, Kerala and some other opposition-ruled states refused or delayed signing agreements with the Centre, claiming that education funding was being linked to the implementation of the National Education Policy.