The West Bengal government has ordered the closure of 252 madrasas across the state following a statewide verification exercise that found alleged irregularities and non-compliance with prescribed norms. In addition, around 100 other madrasas have been issued show-cause notices and have been asked to explain their status and operations.
The action has been taken after the state government reviewed the functioning, infrastructure, management and academic practices of madrasas operating across West Bengal. Authorities have indicated that institutions failing to provide valid documents or satisfactory explanations could also face further action.
Why Has West Bengal Ordered Closure of 252 Madrasas?
The government’s action follows findings related to administrative irregularities, inadequate infrastructure and deviations from prescribed academic requirements.
Reports indicate that inspections examined factors including classroom infrastructure, teacher and student numbers, management practices and compliance with the prescribed syllabus. Some institutions were also found to be operating without the necessary approval or registration.
The government has said that institutions must meet the required standards and operate within the regulatory framework applicable to them.
100 Madrasas Get Show-Cause Notices
Apart from the 252 madrasas facing closure, around 100 institutions have been issued show-cause notices.
These institutions have been given an opportunity to explain their position and submit the required documents. Authorities have indicated that further action could follow if the responses are found to be unsatisfactory or if the institutions fail to establish their legal authorisation.
This means the latest action does not necessarily imply the immediate closure of all 100 madrasas that received notices.
How Many Madrasas Are Operating in West Bengal?
The statewide verification exercise also highlighted the large number of madrasas operating outside the recognised framework.
Reports state that West Bengal has around 2,132 approved madrasas, while approximately 2,396 unapproved or unregistered madrasas were identified during the exercise.
The government is expected to continue the verification process to determine whether institutions operating without proper authorisation meet the required standards.
Districts Among Those Affected
A significant number of the institutions facing action are located in districts including:
|
District |
Action/Review |
|
Malda |
Madrasas identified during the verification exercise |
|
North Dinajpur |
Institutions under scrutiny |
|
Murshidabad |
Madrasas facing regulatory action |
|
Nadia |
Institutions included in the review |
|
South 24 Parganas |
Madrasas identified for action |
The 100 madrasas that have received show-cause notices will have to respond to the concerns raised by the authorities. They may be required to submit documents establishing their authorisation, registration and compliance with applicable requirements.
