Allahabad HC: Unrecognised madrasas can operate legally in Uttar Pradesh
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Allahabad: The Allahabad High Court ruled on January 16 that madrasas in Uttar Pradesh can function without formal government recognition, quashing an order to close the Ahle Sunnat Imam Ahmad Raza madrasa in Shravasti district.
Justice Subhash Vidyarthi directed authorities to unseal the institution within 24 hours, as the state failed to cite any law prohibiting unrecognised madrasas from operating.
The madrasa challenged a May 2025 closure order by the District Minority Welfare Officer, arguing it neither seeks nor receives state aid. Advocate Sayyed Farooq Ahmed cited Supreme Court precedents classifying minority institutions into three categories, placing this madrasa under Article 30(1) protection for those avoiding state aid or recognition.
The court clarified that such institutions cannot access government grants or Board examinations until recognised, addressing state concerns about student qualifications.
Government counsel warned of complications for students lacking recognised credentials. However, the bench held this does not justify closure, distinguishing operation from state benefits. The ruling reinforces minority rights to establish and administer educational institutions independently.