Govt crackdown on Islamic institutions amid allegations of violation of child rights
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI – The Uttarakhand administration has intensified its crackdown on madrasas, sealing more than 110 Islamic schools after a National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) report alleged violations of the Right to Education Act. The move has drawn sharp criticism from Muslim groups, with Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind approaching the Supreme Court to challenge the closures.
The NCPCR, in its report, claimed that many madrasas were denying children access to proper education, a healthy environment, and developmental opportunities. Following the findings, the Uttarakhand government launched fresh inspections, declaring several institutions “illegal.”
“This is a systematic effort to shut down madrasas under false pretences,” said a Jamiat spokesperson. “These schools provide Islamic education to Muslim children, and the state’s actions are intimidating our community.”
The petition, filed on behalf of Jamiat chief Maulana Arshad Madani, argues that madrasas and maktabs (Islamic seminaries) are protected under constitutional rights for minorities. It alleges that authorities have been forcibly closing institutions without justification since early this year.
“We were running our religious schools peacefully until officials suddenly started sealing them,” the petition states. It urges the Supreme Court to order the reopening of the madrasas and restrain the administration from further interference.
The NCPCR, however, maintains that its investigation revealed serious lapses. “Children’s rights cannot be compromised,” an official said. “If madrasas fail to meet educational standards, action is necessary.”
Meanwhile, Muslim leaders have warned that the closures could deepen communal tensions, while child rights activists insist on accountability.
“As per the Constitution, minorities have the right to run their institutions,” argued a Jamiat lawyer. “But the state must also ensure no child is deprived of quality education.”
