The government’s move sparks debate over representation, curriculum control and concerns among Muslim stakeholders
DEHRADUN — The Uttarakhand government’s recent decisions regarding madrasas have triggered a fresh debate over regulation, representation, and the future functioning of minority educational institutions in the state.
After the dissolution of the Madrasa Board, the state has formed a new Minority Education Authority. However, concerns have been raised over representation, as only two Muslim members are part of the 12-member body.
The government is now preparing a new framework under which all madrasas may be brought under the state education department. Officials say the move is aimed at standardising the curriculum and integrating students into mainstream education.
However, madrasa operators and community representatives have expressed uncertainty over the new structure and its implementation.
On Wednesday (22 April), a key meeting was held at Dam Kothi in Haridwar between madrasa representatives and Minority Welfare Minister Khajan Das. The meeting was attended by operators from Haridwar and Dehradun districts along with representatives of Islamic organisations.
The discussion focused on the impact of recent policy changes, especially after the dissolution of the Madrasa Board.
Islamic educationist Mohammad Shahnazar said the new system may create administrative difficulties.
He said, “Now madrasas will need recognition from both the School Education Department and the new authority. This dual process will be complicated.”
He also pointed out that madrasa timings and school schedules differ, making coordination difficult.
Madrasa representatives said they support education reforms but stressed that religious teaching should remain untouched.
A scholar present at the meeting said madrasas are not only educational spaces but also centres of cultural and religious identity.
He said, “We have no objection to modern education, but religious studies should not be interfered with.”
Minister Khajan Das assured the delegation that the government does not intend to interfere in religious education.
He said the objective is to improve education standards and ensure that madrasa students also gain access to modern learning opportunities.
He added that dialogue with stakeholders will continue to address concerns.
The state government has already decided to dissolve the Madrasa Board, with the process expected to be completed by July. Officials said the aim is to implement a uniform syllabus across institutions.
The government has also warned that institutions not complying with new rules may face closure.
The formation of the new Minority Education Authority has also drawn criticism from some Muslim organisations due to limited representation.
Currently, the authority has 12 members, with only two from the Muslim community, raising concerns over participation in decision-making.
Following the meeting, both government officials and madrasa representatives agreed that discussions would continue.
While the government maintains that reforms are aimed at improving education quality, madrasa operators insist that changes must respect religious identity and administrative practicality.
