UP govt orders probe into functioning of madrasas, Oppn says wrong to target one group

An inquiry has been ordered into the functioning of madrasas in Uttar Pradesh. The Opposition has reacted to the same and said it is wrong to target educational institutes of one particular community.

The Uttar Pradesh government has ordered an inquiry into functioning of madrasas across the state. As per this, a physical examination of the buildings, land, rent deed, teachers and students will be done. A committee has also been formed for this.

This comes after the government reportedly received complaints about fake madrasas in some districts of the state. There are more than 7,000 madrasas in Uttar Pradesh.

According to information received, the Block Education Officers and Block Development Officers will conduct the investigations. Reports on the same have to be provided by May 15.

Speaking to India Today, Uttar Pradesh’s minority welfare minister Dharampal Singh said, “There are issues regarding the level of education, land encroachment and lack of technical subjects in madrasas, due to which orders were given to investigate. The government is preparing to take strict action if education is not being carried out or environment for student welfare is not created in madrasas.”

Meanwhile, the Opposition has raised questions over the government’s intention in probing madrasas in the state.

Samajwadi Party spokesperson Nitendra Singh said that the BJP government is targeting a particular section by conducting investigations only on madrasas. “This is completely wrong and unconstitutional. It is not right to take unilateral action out of malice. Irregularities should be investigated in Sanskrit schools, monasteries, and all other schools, not just madrasas,” he said.

Congress leader Surendra Rajput added, “Any action regarding the irregularities in education institutes is acceptable but a specific community should not be targeted.”