For BJP CM in Uttarakhand, madrasas breed radicalism; critics call it communally biased

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has termed the sealing of at least 170 madrasas across the state for alleged non-registration under the state board as a ‘historic step’, claiming that the Muslim institutions were leading children towards radicalism, drawing criticism for his communally divisive statement.

Critics, including civil rights activists and Muslim clerics, criticised the move, stating that as a Hindu right-wing politician, he is targeting Muslim institutions and taking pride in shutting down establishments that had been operational for decades.

In Haldwani’s Banbhulpura area, which has a significant Muslim population, a joint operation by the district administration, municipal corporation, and local police led to the sealing of seven madrasas on April 13 following a special inspection.

According to the chief minister’s office, the crackdown was based on detailed surveys conducted by specially appointed teams, and the move is being framed as part of a broader effort to regulate educational institutions. Nearly 500 madrasas remain under scrutiny and could face similar action, with officials indicating that the drive is far from over.

Many of the madrasas that have been shut down have reportedly been operational for decades, raising apprehensions among affected communities. Civil rights groups and religious leaders have expressed concerns, urging the government to conduct the review process fairly and transparently.

They warn that indiscriminate enforcement without proper justification could deepen the sense of alienation among already marginalised sections and exacerbate existing tensions. The state’s firm stance on the matter is being closely watched amid growing calls for accountability.