The board claims that the initiative aims to bridge religious gaps and encourage Hindu students to attend the modernised madrasas.
Team ClarionÂ
DEHRADUN – The Uttarakhand Waqf Board’s recent move to include lessons on Hindu deity Ram in its madrasa curriculum has raised eyebrows, with critics questioning the board’s commitment to provide a secular and inclusive education.
Under the leadership of chairman Shadab Shams, the board, which had initially promised to modernise madrasas by implementing the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) syllabus, now plans to introduce Ram’s teachings in four madrasas starting March this year.
Shams justifies this decision by citing the national celebration of the recent consecration of Ram Temple in Ayodhya, suggesting a thinly veiled attempt to align with a particular religious sentiment.
The decision to exclude teachings about Aurangzeb, as mentioned by Shams, adds another layer of concern, implying a selective historical narrative that might cater to a specific agenda. Critics argue that educational institutions should prioritise a well-rounded and unbiased approach to history, rather than cherry-picking figures based on religious affiliations.
Shams’ appeal to the seer community to adopt financially weaker madrasas is viewed skeptically, with concerns raised about potential religious interference in educational matters. The move appears to be a strategic attempt to garner support from religious leaders, potentially compromising the autonomy and independence of these educational institutions.
The imposition of mandatory school uniforms, namaz five times a day, and a strict schedule for Qur’an studies in the proposed modern madrasas is seen by some as an alarming step towards religious regimentation. Critics argue that this move may undermine the diversity of educational experiences by imposing a particular religious structure on students, contrary to the principles of a secular education system.
The Waqf Board claims that the initiative aims to bridge religious gaps and encourage Hindu students to attend these modernised madrasas.
The Uttarakhand Waqf Board’s decision to blend scientific learning with Islamic studies and introduce Sanskrit in madrasas had already faced criticism last year. The current move intensifies the scrutiny on the board’s decisions, prompting calls for greater transparency and a more inclusive approach that upholds the secular values of the nation’s educational system.
