Uttar Pradesh: State government orders closure of Madrasas with daily fines

The government of Uttar Pradesh has issued a directive mandating the closure of all 'unauthorized madrassas' within the state, accompanied by a daily fine of Rs 10,000 for non-compliance. Only madrassas registered with the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madrassa Education (UPBME) are permitted to continue operations. Out of the 19,213 registered madrassas, 16,461

are recognized by the UP government. The order also instructs district magistrates and police to take action against unauthorized madrassas, citing violations of the UP Madrassa Education Act,

2004, and UP Madrassa Education Rules, 2016. Critics argue that such measures target a specific community and harass madrasas by providing free education. The BJP-led government has initiated investigations into 4,000 madrasas, accusing them of receiving foreign funds, a claim denied by Muslim groups.