It has come to light that over 700 Hindu students are currently taking ‘education’ in Uttarakhand’s madrasas.

A report in this regard has been submitted to the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) by the Uttarakhand Madrasa Education Council. The Commission has written a letter to the Uttarakhand government showing its concerns in this regard.

Rajendra Singh, director of the Uttarakhand Madarsa Education Council, told the chairman of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights that 749 Hindu students are studying in 30 madrasas in Uttarakhand. There are a total of 7,399 students in these 30 madrasas.

As per the report, Hindu students are studying in madrasas in Udham Singh Nagar, Haridwar, and Nainital districts. However, it added that it has been happening with the consent of students’ guardians.

“Primary education is already being provided in madrasas, aligning with the education policy of India, and this is a common practice across most madrasas. Despite the lack of awareness among some individuals, we have still advocated for an investigation to be conducted into this matter,” Uttarakhand Madarsa Board Chairman Shamoon Qasmi said.

“Prompted by a letter from the Commission, we have called for an inquiry to ensure that madrasas are not solely perceived as centres of learning for one religion. Our aim is to promote inclusivity, fostering an environment where not only Muslim children but also Hindu children can receive education. We are actively working towards creating such an inclusive atmosphere,” he added.