The Supreme Court has put a hold on the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights' directive to discontinue funding for Madrasa Boards, following a plea filed by Jamiat Ulema-i-Hind. The plea argued that the NCPCR's action was discriminatory and unconstitutional, and violated several fundamental rights. The Commission, which is responsible for protecting children's rights across India, had recommended that non-Muslim children enrolled in madrasas be moved to mainstream schools under the RTE Act of 2009.
The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights has written to all State and Union territory chief secretaries urging them to close down madrasas, stop state funding, and enroll children in formal schools instead. While Congress and BJP ally JD(U) did not respond to the letter, LJP spokesperson AK Bajpayee expressed concern over potential hasty actions and the need for proper survey and investigation. Samajwadi Party MP Anand Bhadauriya condemned the letter as politically motivated and pointed out the positive contributions of madrasas, while former Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge highlighted the flaws in government schools and the need for careful consideration before taking any action.
The National Commission for the Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has urged states to stop funding madrasas and enroll non-Muslim children in regular schools. This recommendation was made in a recent report that also suggests scrapping Madrasa Boards. However, opposition leaders have strongly criticized the move, calling it a blatant attempt to change the Constitution and create religious conflicts.