West Bengal Forms 18-Member Committee to Review Illegal Madrasas

Shillong, India Jul 12, 2026 ALN: The West Bengal Minority Affairs and Madrasah Education Department has constituted an 18-member committee to review the ongoing survey aimed at identifying illegally run unrecognized madrasas, often referred to as ‘Khariji Madrasahs’, across 12 districts of the state. This initiative has garnered significant attention, reflecting broader concerns regarding the regulation and oversight of educational institutions within the state, particularly those catering to minority communities.

The formation of the committee comes in the wake of increasing scrutiny of madrasas, especially unrecognized ones, which are believed to operate without proper oversight or adherence to educational standards. The review committee is set to commence visits to the districts starting July 15, with a detailed report expected to be submitted to the state Minority Affairs and Madrasah Education Department by July 21. This timeline indicates the urgency with which the state government is approaching the issue, aiming to resolve concerns swiftly and effectively.

According to an official from the state secretariat of Nabanna, the department will take further action based on the recommendations provided by the review committee. The districts involved in this review include Cooch Behar, North Dinajpur, Malda, Murshidabad, Birbhum, West Midnapore, East Midnapore, Nadia, Hooghly, Howrah, North 24 Parganas, and South 24 Parganas. Each of these districts has its unique demographic and socio-economic landscape, which may influence the nature of madrasas operating within them.

In early June, a notification was issued directing District Magistrates (DMs) to compile comprehensive reports regarding madrasas in their respective districts, which were to be submitted to the state secretariat by July 5. This directive underscores the proactive approach taken by the state government in addressing the issue of unregulated educational institutions. With preliminary reports from the DMs already available, state government insiders have indicated that 12 districts have been identified for a second round of surveys due to the high number of unrecognized madrasas. This indicates a significant presence of such institutions, raising questions about their impact on the educational landscape and the communities they serve.

This decision to conduct an additional review of the madrasa education system in these districts was made prior to the state government’s final administrative decision regarding them. The implications of these reviews are substantial, as they could lead to the closure of institutions that do not meet regulatory standards, as well as the implementation of stricter oversight measures for those that remain operational.

In the previous notification issued last month, DMs were instructed to provide relevant details about the madrasas, including their foundation dates, registration status with the state Minority Affairs and Madrasah Education Department, details of students and staff, whether the madrasas are residential, and the curriculum offered. This comprehensive data collection is crucial for understanding the scope and scale of madrasah education in West Bengal, particularly in the context of ensuring that educational institutions comply with state regulations.

Earlier in May, shortly after assuming office as the new Minority Affairs and Madrasah Education Minister in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled West Bengal government, Khudiram Tudu announced a crackdown on illegally operating madrasas. This announcement is part of a broader agenda by the BJP to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding minority educational institutions, which has been a topic of political discourse in the region. Tudu stated that once identified, these illegally run madrasas would be closed down, and those involved in such illegal activities would face punishment. He emphasized that the state administration would remain vigilant to prevent the emergence of illegal madrasas in the future.

The crackdown on unrecognized madrasas has sparked a debate about the balance between regulation and the right to education, particularly for minority communities. Critics argue that while oversight is necessary to ensure quality education, excessive regulation could stifle educational opportunities for those who rely on madrasas for their learning. Supporters of the initiative, however, contend that ensuring madrasas adhere to educational standards is vital for the welfare of students and the integrity of the education system.

In the broader context, the move to regulate madrasas aligns with national trends where various state governments have sought to bring unrecognized educational institutions under formal oversight. This trend reflects a growing recognition of the need for accountability in education, especially in regions with significant minority populations. The implications of these actions may extend beyond immediate regulatory concerns, potentially affecting the socio-political dynamics within these communities.

Furthermore, the scrutiny of madrasas is not just a local issue but part of a larger national narrative surrounding education, minority rights, and governance. As the West Bengal government proceeds with its review and potential regulatory measures, the outcomes will likely influence similar initiatives in other states, shaping the future of madrasa education across India.

In conclusion, the establishment of the 18-member committee to review illegal madrasas in West Bengal represents a significant step in addressing concerns about unregulated educational institutions. The outcomes of this review will have lasting implications for the educational landscape in the state, particularly for minority communities that rely on madrasas for their education. As the state government moves forward, it will be essential to balance the need for regulatory oversight with the rights of individuals to access education in a manner that respects their cultural and religious identities.