The West Bengal government has ordered physical inspections of unaided madrasas across 12 districts to assess their functioning and compliance with the state’s educational framework. The exercise, announced on July 8, targets both recognised and unrecognised institutions, including "Khariji" madrasas, and must be completed by July 15.
Inspections Cover 12 Districts
The districts under review include Cooch Behar, North Dinajpur, Malda, Murshidabad, Birbhum, West Midnapore, East Midnapore, Nadia, Hooghly, Howrah, North 24 Parganas, and South 24 Parganas. Authorities will evaluate student welfare, scheme implementation, and institutional operations, collecting data on origins, funding, enrolment, staff, facilities, and curriculum.
Political Reactions to the Madrasa Crackdown
BJP leaders have supported the move. Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar cited former Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee’s past allegations that some madrasas had become hubs of terrorism, though Bhattacharjee later retracted the statement. Majumdar stated, “Whatever decision the government has taken is right... It’s important to have an inquiry there.”
State Minister Agnimitra Paul alleged that some unrecognised madrasas impart "anti-India" teachings, adding that the inspections would examine curricula. She referenced the arrest of Shahad Ali, an alleged terrorist linked to such institutions, and emphasized the need to prevent anti-national sentiment. Paul stated, “We do not support anything that promotes anti-India sentiments.”
The inspections will determine compliance with West Bengal’s regulatory framework, with officials assigned district-wise responsibilities. The government has not announced further steps beyond the July 15 deadline.
