NEW DELHI: The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has written to the Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories, demanding the closure of madrassas operating in the country. The letter also proposes to abolish and close the Madrasah Boards and stop funding Madrasahs and Madrasah Boards. The Child Rights Commission has pointed out that the method of education in madrasas violates the constitutional rights of children.
The letter also criticizes education in madrasas. The main criticism is that it has failed to mainstream Muslim students. If non-Muslim children study in madrasas, they should be transferred to public schools. The letter also included important suggestions such as ensuring that Muslim children studying in madrasas also get general education. The letter also points out that madrassas are against the Education Protection Act.
Meanwhile, BJP's ally Lok Janshakti Party at the Center has come forward to oppose the letter. "If any madrassa is found to be operating illegally, it should be closed down but nothing should be done blindly. Lok Janshakti Party spokesperson AK Bajpai said, "I am not aware that the letter was written after receiving any negative reports from the states." Opposition parties including the Congress say that they will respond after reading the letter and studying the matter.