The Allahabad High Court’s bold verdict on non-recognized madrasas has drawn praise from prominent Islamic scholar Maulana Mahmud Madani, President of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind. He views it as a definitive endorsement of India’s constitutional ethos, particularly Article 30 protections for minorities.
Madani criticized past administrative zeal in targeting madrasas, calling such closures unconstitutional embarrassments. This decision directly counters those narratives, strengthening Jamiat’s court battles—including for 30 Shravasti institutions and against Uttarakhand authorities.
Practical advice followed: madrasa leaders must refine operations to silence detractors. The court was unequivocal—non-affiliation alone cannot trigger closures, seals, or study halts. No UP regulation permits this, it ruled, while upholding SC principles for unaided, unaccredited minority schools.
Madani pressed all states, especially UP, to align policies with the law, halting biased enforcement immediately. Jamiat’s resolve to protect educational and religious freedoms endures. He extended thanks to advocates and madrasas for their resilient legal campaign.
Broader context reveals tensions over religious schooling in India. This judgment balances oversight needs with autonomy rights, potentially influencing national debates on minority education. It reaffirms that faith-based learning thrives under constitutional safeguards, not state whims.