The Uttarakhand administration on Thursday sealed two madrassas in Haldwani’s Banbhulpura area after their operators allegedly failed to produce documents related to approval and registration during an inspection.
The action was carried out as part of the state government’s ongoing drive to inspect institutions operating without the required recognition or permissions.
Administration Inspects Madrassas
A joint team led by Haldwani City Magistrate and Sub-Divisional Magistrate inspected madrassas in Banbhulpura to verify their registration, approval and other documents.
According to the administration, operators of two madrassas could not provide the required documents. The authorities subsequently sealed both institutions.
The latest action has reportedly caused concern among operators of other madrassas in the area that may not have the required approvals. Some operators are also reportedly shutting their institutions voluntarily, although officials have continued inspections of such establishments.
Haldwani City Magistrate A.P. Vajpayee said institutions cannot be allowed to operate without the required recognition and in violation of prescribed rules.
“No one will be allowed to operate any institution running without necessary recognition and following the prescribed rules,” Vajpayee said.
He added that administration teams were checking documents on the spot and also examining other arrangements related to the functioning of the institutions.
Crackdown Follows Action in Udham Singh Nagar
The Haldwani action came a day after authorities in Udham Singh Nagar sealed another madrassa, declaring it illegal.
The madrassa operator, however, claimed that an application had already been submitted to the concerned government department seeking approval, but that the process had been delayed. He said he planned to challenge the administration’s decision in court.
Officials have said inspections will continue and action will be taken wherever violations of rules are found.
Madrassa Operators Challenge Government Action
The Uttarakhand government has maintained that its campaign is focused on institutions operating without the necessary permissions, recognition and documentation.
However, some madrassa operators have challenged such action, arguing that targeting privately run madrassas in this manner could affect their constitutional rights. Some have also approached or indicated plans to approach courts against sealing orders.
The administration has said its inspections will continue across the state and that institutions found operating without the required approvals or documents will face action according to the law.
