By Arun Pratap Singh
Dehradun, 25 Mar: The ongoing crackdown by the Uttarakhand government directed by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on illegally operating madrasas in the state has shaken some Muslim organisations and has also drawn strong criticism from a section of the community as well as the Opposition led by the Congress. In a latest development, Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind has filed a case in the Supreme Court challenging the action against the Madrasas. So far, 140 madrasas have been sealed for operating without recognition or registration. Most of these institutions are located in Udham Singh Nagar, Dehradun and Haridwar districts.
In its petition filed directly with the Supreme Court bypassing the High Court, Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, under the leadership of its president, Arshad Madani, has termed the government action as a move that pushes the future of students into darkness. In his petition, Arshad Madani has urged immediate intervention of the Apex Court. Through, his legal counsels, Madani has argued that the closure of madrasas violates the fundamental rights of students and their families, as it prevents them from pursuing religious education as per their wishes.
In its petition, the Jamiat cited the Indian Constitution, and a Supreme Court order dated 21 October 2024, claiming that the ongoing action amounts to contempt of court. According to Madani, no prior notice or opportunity to explain was given to the affected madrasas, leading to widespread concern among parents and guardians. The petition also seeks to prevent any future government interference in the affairs of madrasas and maktabs.
In his social media post on Twitter today, Madani termed the government’s actions as contempt of court, alleging that several madrasas have been sealed without prior notice or an opportunity to present their case. He further claimed that this continuous harassment violates fundamental rights, causing distress among parents and guardians, as children are being deprived of their religious education. In his post, Madani also alleged that the Uttarakhand Government’s actions aim to create an atmosphere of fear among Muslims.
However, despite protests from Muslim organisations in Uttarakhand, including the Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, the state government has asserted its intent to continue the crackdown on institutions that fail to comply with education-related regulations. It has also launched an inquiry into the funding sources of these madrasas, suspecting possible foreign connections.
The Dhami Government remains firm so far on its position in this regard, maintaining that any educational institution, whether a school or madrasa, operating without proper authorisation will face strict action. The matter now awaits the Supreme Court’s decision, which will determine the fate of the sealed madrasas.
