LUCKNOW: The Uttar Pradesh Madarsa Shiksha Parishad (UP Madarsa Education Council), a state government body, has issued a circular mandating all madrasas affiliated to it across the state to celebrate the 70th Independence Day by hoisting the tri-colour and singing the national anthem and national song.
The order, comprising a detailed time schedule of the events also makes videography and photography mandatory failing which action may be initiated against erring institutions. Moreover, the institutions will have to organise a host of cultural activities as well on the occasion.
As per the circular, the madrasas will have to send video clips and photos of the programme to the parishad as evidence of compliance with the order and also to preserve the impressive work as a template for future.
Minister of state for Minority Welfare, Baldev Olakh justified the order saying it was necessary to inculcate a sense of pride and honour for the national anthem and song among the students. “It has been made compulsory for everyone to sing it. Action will be taken against those found guilty of non-compliance,” he stated.
The circular states that the flag hoisting and programme will commence at 8 am. Following this, tributes will be paid to martyrs of India’s freedom struggle. Students will sing songs on nationalism and will be told about the history of the freedom struggle.
Instructions have also been issued to organise special sessions on the life and times of freedom fighters and telling students about their contributions to India’s freedom movement.Cultural events and sports competitions should also be organised ensuring maximum participation of the students on the occasion. The programmes will conclude with the distribution of sweets, says the circular.
While some Muslim clerics and Maulvis agreed to comply with it, others have expressed concern. “As it is we have been celebrating Independence Day with gaiety and zeal, then what was the need for a circular but a political motive. Since it has been issued we will follow it,” said Maulana Kazmi.
However, Maulana Khailid Rashid Firangimahali, a prominent Sunni cleric took affront of the circular asserting that madrasas had always been a part of Independence Day celebrations. “Then why have they asked us to give proof this time. Where was the doubt,” he asked.