Authorities in Uttarakhand have intensified their crackdown on illegal madrasas, sealing over 100 unregistered institutions operating without government approval. This action follows Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s directive to identify and shut down religious institutions violating state norms.

Madrasas Sealed Across Multiple Districts

The enforcement drive gained momentum on Thursday, when officials sealed 16 madrasas in Udhamsingh Nagar and two in Haridwar, with support from local police. This follows the closure of 92 illegal madrasas in Dehradun and Pauri, bringing the total number of sealed institutions to 110 since the crackdown began a month ago.

Chief Minister’s Firm Stand on Illegal Madrasas

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has repeatedly emphasized that illegal madrasas will not be allowed to operate in Uttarakhand. Over a month ago, he directed the Home Department, district magistrates, state police, and senior officials to take decisive action against institutions running without approval. The administration has also been instructed to investigate religious structures built on encroached government land.

"The government will not tolerate illegal madrasas. Strict action will continue until all unregistered institutions are shut down," Dhami has stated.

Extent of Unregulated Religious Institutions

According to official records, the Uttarakhand Madrasa Board oversees 416 government-registered madrasas. However, the number of unregistered and unregulated religious institutions is believed to be significantly higher. The administration has been given full authority to act against unauthorised madrasas and take necessary legal action.

Investigations Into Funding and Activities

Authorities are not just closing illegal madrasas but also launching a deeper investigation into the networks behind them. Officials believe such institutions could not have expanded on such a large scale without organisational support and funding. The probe aims to identify individuals responsible for running these madrasas and assess the nature of education being imparted to students.

Ongoing Statewide Crackdown

The large-scale operation against illegal madrasas has been ongoing for over a month, with district administrations, police, and enforcement agencies working together. The crackdown is expected to continue as the government remains committed to regulating religious education and ensuring compliance with legal standards.