Authorities launch probe; minority rights, constitutional provisions, and freedom to teach religious and cultural lessons in private institutions come into focus
AZAMGARH — A private school in Rani Ki Sarai area of Azamgarh in Uttar Pradesh has become the centre of a heated controversy after a video showing children receiving religious education in Urdu went viral on social media. Hindu organisations have reacted strongly, alleging that the school is promoting religious fanaticism and conversion, despite it being a private institution operating within the law.
The school at the heart of the dispute, Azamgarh Public School, was established by Samajwadi Party Legislative Council member Shah Alam, also known as Guddu Jamali. In the video, dated 23 December, children dressed in school uniforms were seen answering religious questions posed by a teacher, appearing to participate willingly.
Following the uproar, Principal Rupal Pandya clarified, “We have sought a response from the concerned teacher regarding the video. Necessary action will be taken once the teacher’s reply is received. Only then can we confirm if the video is from our school and the date of recording.”
Despite these clarifications, right-wing organisations have demanded swift action. Arun Kumar Singh Sadhu, National Executive President of Vishva Hindu Mahasangh, stated, “Azamgarh Public School is recognised by CBSE, not a madrasa. Providing religious education here is highly condemnable because children of all religions study at this school. Offering Islamic religious education alone is objectionable.”
Singh Sadhu further announced plans to write to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath urging the cancellation of the school’s recognition and strict administrative action.
Legal experts emphasise that private schools have the right to provide religious education. Article 28 of the Constitution prohibits religious instruction in government-funded schools but allows private institutions the freedom to do so. Additionally, Article 30 grants minority communities, whether religious or linguistic, the right to establish and manage educational institutions, which includes imparting religious and cultural teachings.
As constitutional expert Dr Meena Sharma explained, “Azamgarh Public School, being a private institution, is well within its rights to teach religious education in Urdu to Muslim children. The protests appear to ignore the clear provisions of Articles 28 and 30, which are meant to protect minority rights.”
Local observers have questioned the selective outrage. A resident of Rani Ki Sarai noted, “In missionary schools, children are taught about Jesus, and Sanskrit is taught in Hindu-run institutions like Saraswati Shishu Mandir. Yet, when a Muslim school teaches Urdu religious lessons, it is suddenly labelled illegal. Why the double standard?”
Social worker Saqib Ahmed added, “Right-wing organisations have made religious education for Muslim children a political issue. Private schools have the constitutional right to provide such education. The focus should be on quality education, not fear-mongering.”
Under pressure from Hindutva organisations, the district administration has formed three teams to conduct a confidential investigation. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading rumours that could escalate tensions. Police and education officials are reportedly verifying the authenticity of the viral video and examining whether any laws have been breached.
Many local Muslim families have expressed concern over the protests. “Our children are learning about their religion in a safe, private environment,” said a parent. “There is no compulsion or conversion involved. Yet, we are being questioned and targeted for this basic right.”
Meanwhile, educational experts argue that creating an atmosphere of fear around minority-run schools risks undermining the larger goals of literacy and social development. “Such incidents discourage parents from sending children to school and threaten the education of minority communities,” said Dr Anil Kumar, an education policy researcher.
The Azamgarh controversy underscores the ongoing challenges faced by minority communities in exercising their constitutional rights. While investigations continue, legal and educational experts stress that private schools must be allowed to teach religious and cultural lessons without intimidation.
As the situation unfolds, it remains crucial for authorities and civil society to ensure that lawful educational practices are respected, communal harmony is preserved, and the rights of India’s minority communities are safeguarded.
