DEHRADUN: The National Child Rights Commission has advised dismantling the Uttarakhand Madrasa Board, citing contradictions between children's fundamental rights and minority community rights.
The National Child Rights Commission has taken strong cognizance of the exclusion of children attending madrasas from the formal education system, despite constitutional protections.
"Children attending only religious institutions are being left behind, denied their fundamental right to education under the RTE Act 2009," the commission noted.
This concern arises from the commission's inspection of state madrasa education centres, highlighting the contradiction between children's rights and minority community rights. Articles 29 and 30 of the Constitution safeguard minority rights, but the current system fails to provide these children with formal education.
According to sources, 749 non-Muslim children are enrolled in 30 madrasas across the state. National Child Rights Commission Chairperson Priyank Kanoongo noted several discrepancies during his inspection of Dehradun madrasas in May. Priyank Kanoongo, Chairperson of the National Child Rights Commission, has recommended dissolving madrasa boards across all states.
"We've written to all Chief Secretaries, suggesting madrasa boards be dissolved and children be transferred to schools," Kanoongo said, emphasising the need for formal education. The commission's recommendations aim to bridge this education gap, ensuring that all children, regardless of their background, receive a comprehensive education.
"Madarasas in Uttarakhand follow the NCERT curriculum," stated Mufti Shamoon Qasmi, Chairperson of the Uttarakhand Madrasa Board. "If any madrasa is found teaching religious education instead of NCERT, it will be shut down" Qasmi's assurance highlights the Uttarakhand Madrasa Board's commitment to providing quality education aligned with national standards.
This statement comes amid concerns about the education system in madrasas. The board's stance is crucial in addressing concerns about madrasas' curriculum and ensuring students receive comprehensive education. According to latest figures, India has around 24,010 madrasas, of which 416 are located in Uttarakhand. These institutions play a crucial role in providing accessible education to disadvantaged children from economically weaker sections of society.