Madrasas derecognised as formal educational institutions in Maharashtra

Mumbai, June 2: The Maharashtra state government has derecognized Madrasas and termed the students as out of school children on the ground that they do not provide formal education. The move which has been termed as controversial was backed by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis who intends bringing children to main stream schools.

While there are many who are likely to criticize the decision terming it as vindictive, the government of Maharashtra has made it clear that the move is intended to ensure that all children have access to formal education.

Madrasas and Islamic seminaries derecognized:

The move by the government would mean that none of the Madrasas and Islamic seminaries would be recognized as formal educational institutes. In several states Madrasas have been recognized by the government.

In the case of Maharashtra it is felt that Madrasas do not provide formal education. The decision aims as derecognizing the Madrasas as formal schools.

The government of Maharashtra will undertake a survey to identify the out of school children. The out of school children are the ones who are studying at Madrasas.

The government feels that the survey would identify such children and bring them to main stream education. There are around 2000 Madrasas in Maharashtra and until two years back 1.5 lakh students were studying there.

The Congress has termed the move as unconstitutional and a large number of Muslims in the state are likely to protest and also challenge the decision before the court.

OneIndia News