Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar made controversial remarks on Wednesday, accusing certain madrasas of “fostering terrorism” and posing a threat to national security. Speaking at the inauguration of a girls’ hostel in Jammikunta, Karimnagar district, Kumar claimed that some madrasas are teaching dangerous skills, even “training students to use AK-47 rifles with broomsticks.”
The former Telangana Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief also criticized the state government for providing financial support to these institutions, accusing them of “promoting extremism.”
“Why is the government funding these institutions that are a danger to our nation’s security?” he questioned, without offering evidence for his claims.
Kumar, who has previously been criticized for making Islamophobic remarks, also voiced frustration over the lack of funding for Shishumandir schools, which he said “promote Indian Sanatana culture and traditions.” He further attacked the Telangana government for failing to fill thousands of vacant teaching and sanitation positions in state schools.
“It’s disappointing that there isn’t even a dedicated minister in charge of education,” Kumar added, calling the situation “regrettable.”