NEW DELHI: The Tahaffuz-e-Madaris conference convened at the headquarters of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind (M) on April 16, issuing a resolute stance against any attempts to alter the essence of madrasas. With the recent Allahabad High Court ruling deeming the UP Madarsa Board Act unlawful and mounting attacks on the Madrasa education system, the conference deliberated on crucial measures to safeguard the integrity of Islamic education institutions.
Attended by hundreds of vice chancellors and rectors representing prominent Islamic Madrasas in Uttar Pradesh, the conference voiced deep concerns over the legal challenges faced by madrasas and government actions targeting these institutions. Presided over by Maulana Mahmood Madani, president of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, the event united leaders from over 100 renowned Madrasas, including Mazahir Uloom, Saharanpur, and Darul Uloom Deoband.
Maulana Madani underscored the indispensable role of madrasas in preserving faith-based traditions and nurturing spiritual leaders. He advocated for a unified response to counter the adversarial stance of government agencies while preserving the historical integrity of madrasas and adapting them to contemporary educational standards. Proposals for an independent education board akin to the ICSE were put forth to enhance educational quality.
Distinguished speakers, including Maulana Muhammad Sufian Qasmi from Darul Uloom Waqf, emphasized the need for primary school development alongside madrasas and emphasized financial transparency. They commended the leadership of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind and called for collaborative efforts to address challenges, echoing sentiments shared by Vice Rector Maulana Mufti Muhammad Rashid Azmi of Darul Uloom Deoband.
The conference culminated in a unanimous resolution condemning government agencies’ aggressive actions against Madrasas and advocating for coordinated measures to uphold their significance and autonomy. Plans for establishing a standalone education body and a permanent committee to oversee Madrasa operations were announced, with a focus on maintaining independence and integrity.
Key recommendations included operating Madrasas under the auspices of trusts or societies, conducting rigorous property ownership verification, adhering to hostel regulations, and prioritizing basic modern education for children aged 6 to 14. Notable figures such as Maulana Shah Abdul Rahim and Maulana Afzalur Rahman Sheikh Al Hadith shared their insights, underscoring the conference’s commitment to safeguarding Islamic education. General Secretary Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, Maulana Hakeemuddin Qasmi, supervised the proceedings, ensuring a comprehensive discussion on critical issues facing Madrasas.
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