Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya has triggered a political controversy after claiming that madrasas “produce terrorism”, drawing sharp criticism from opposition parties and Muslim religious leaders ahead of next year’s Assembly elections.
Speaking to reporters, Maurya said, “Whether a madrasa is in Bangladesh, Pakistan or India, madrasas unofficially produce terrorism.”
His remarks come at a time when the Uttar Pradesh government is reportedly considering changes to the state’s madrasa education system.
The statement has prompted strong reactions from opposition parties, which accused the BJP leader of attempting to polarise society ahead of the Assembly elections. Opposition leaders described the remarks as divisive and harmful to communal harmony.
According to reports, the controversy coincides with the beginning of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly’s Monsoon Session, where the issue is expected to be raised.
Madrasa reforms under consideration
Maurya’s comments also come amid reports that the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet is likely to consider reforms to madrasa education.
According to sources, the government may decide to discontinue degree-level courses in madrasas, limiting recognised education to Class 12. An official decision is expected during a Cabinet meeting.
If approved, the move would significantly alter the structure of madrasa education in the state.
Muslim cleric responds
Reacting to Maurya’s statement, Bareilly-based Muslim cleric Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi rejected the allegation and urged the Deputy Chief Minister to study India’s history.
“Taslima Nasrin and Keshav Prasad Maurya should read the history of India. Around 55,000 ulema from madrasas sacrificed their lives during the freedom struggle. Madrasas gave rise to the slogan of ‘Inquilab Zindabad’. From Rohilkhand to Delhi, ulema laid down their lives. The government should honour madrasas,” he said.
The BJP has not issued an official clarification on Maurya’s remarks, while political reactions continue to emerge as the controversy unfolds.
