In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India has overturned an earlier ruling by the Allahabad High Court that had effectively banned Islamic schools, or madrasas, in Uttar Pradesh, the country’s most populous state. The decision brings relief to approximately 2.7 million students and 10,000 teachers who would have been impacted by the closure.
Background of the Ban
The Allahabad High Court’s March ruling struck down a 2004 law governing madrasas, arguing that it contradicted the principle of secularism outlined in the Indian Constitution. The ruling mandated the integration of madrasa students into conventional schools. However, with the Supreme Court’s latest verdict, the 25,000 madrasas across the state can continue operations.
Supreme Court’s Stand on Education Rights
Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, delivering the judgment, affirmed the state’s obligation to ensure access to education for all children, stating, “The act is consistent with the positive obligation of the state to ensure that the children get adequate education.” This statement underscores the importance of diverse educational systems that cater to varied communities while upholding constitutional rights.
Broader Implications and Context
This ruling arrives amidst ongoing conversions of madrasas into conventional schools in other parts of India, including the northeastern state of Assam, governed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The BJP has faced criticism from various Muslim and human rights groups who claim that some members promote anti-Islamic rhetoric and actions that disproportionately affect the Muslim community. The party, however, maintains that it is committed to the equal development of all religious and cultural groups in India.
Current Status and Reactions
The state government has yet to issue an official response to the Supreme Court’s decision. Meanwhile, the ruling has been welcomed by madrasa educators and students who can now continue their educational pursuits without disruption.
