Allahabad HC Declares UP Madarsa Education Act Unconstitutional

The Allahabad High Court, in a significant ruling, has struck down the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004 (Madarsa Act). The court declared the Act “unconstitutional” stating it violates the principle of secularism enshrined in the Indian Constitution.

Key Points of the Judgement:

• The Act establishing a separate board for madrasas was deemed to go against the secular character of the state.
• The court found the Act violated Articles 14 (Right to Equality), 21 (Right to Life and Liberty), and 21-A (Right to Education) of the Constitution.
• It also raised concerns regarding the Act contradicting Section 22 of the University Grants Commission Act, 1956.

Impact and Next Steps:

• The future of over 16,000 madrasas in Uttar Pradesh, with hundreds receiving government grants, hangs in the balance.
• The court directed the state government to devise a plan to integrate madrasa students into the mainstream education system. This may involve creating additional seats or establishing new schools.
• The Uttar Pradesh government has not yet decided whether to challenge the verdict in the Supreme Court.

This judgement has sparked debate on the balance between religious education and secularism in the Indian education system.