Repealing the Madrasa Act would be like “throwing the baby out with the bathwater.”

CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The hearing on the UP Madrasa Act in the Supreme Court has concluded, and the judgment has been reserved. During the October hearing, questions were raised about the constitutionality of the UP Madrasa Act, and the Court examined the issue in detail.

What’s the Issue?

The debate over the existence and constitutionality of madrasas is ongoing. UP Government’s lawyer, Additional Solicitor General KM Natarajan, argued that repealing the entire Act would not be appropriate. Meanwhile, the Chief Justice of India (CJI) remarked that repealing the Madrasa Act entirely would be like “throwing the baby out with the bathwater.”

Right to Education and Religious Institutions

The CJI emphasized that all religious institutions should have the right to education. He pointed out that India’s ethos is built on the confluence of various religions, and such institutions are part of that diversity. The Court questioned why only madrasas are being scrutinized and suggested that other religious educational institutions should also be part of this debate.

NCPCR’s Question

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) was also questioned about why they have only focused on madrasas, when other religious institutions also provide education. The Court suggested taking a balanced approach on the matter.

Awaiting the Decision

All eyes are now on the Supreme Court’s verdict. It will be significant to see whether the Court upholds the constitutionality of the UP Madrasa Act or recommends any changes.

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