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The Supreme Court of India has delivered a significant judgment concerning the regulation of madrasas in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The court overturned a previous ruling by the Allahabad High Court, which had declared a 2004 law regulating madrasas unconstitutional and a violation of the principle of secularism. This decision provides substantial relief to the approximately 16,000 madrasas operating in Uttar Pradesh.
The Supreme Court's ruling centered around the notion that the state has a legitimate right to regulate the quality of education provided by madrasas, regardless of the inclusion of religious instruction. The court emphasized that such regulations do not inherently interfere with the administrative functioning of madrasas. The justices reasoned that the 2004 Act aimed to protect the rights of minorities in Uttar Pradesh, ensuring that students receive a quality education that prepares them for successful futures.
The Supreme Court's verdict also addressed the Allahabad High Court's call for the integration of madrasa students into the formal school system. The court maintained that the 2004 Act did not necessitate the dismantling of the existing madrasa system. Instead, the court advocated for the implementation of quality standards that would ensure a robust educational environment within the madrasa system, allowing students to acquire the necessary skills for economic advancement. This approach recognizes the cultural and religious significance of madrasas while also emphasizing the importance of quality education.
Source: Madrasas In UP Can Function, Top Court Says High Court Erred In Judgment