BJP leader’s Islamophobic remarks come amid fresh curbs on madrasa education in UP
Lucknow: A senior BJP leader has sparked widespread criticism after making an Islamophobic remark linking Islamic seminaries to terrorism, as the Hindutv-led Uttar Pradesh government moves to impose fresh restrictions on madrasa education.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Uttar Pradesh Deputyspeaking to reporters, claimed that madrasas in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh “indirectly promote terrorism.”
His remarks came as the Hindu monk Yogi Adityanath-led UP government is reportedly preparing to abolish degree-level courses in madrasas and restrict Islamic seminaries to providing education only up to the 12th grade. If implemented, the move, would significantly curtail the role of madrasas in higher education, affecting thousands of Muslim students across India’s most populous state.
Maurya’s comments drew strong criticism from opposition leaders and Muslim representatives, who said that the BJP leader was demonizing Islamic educational institutions by equating them with extremism without evidence.
Critics said the proposed policy appears to be part of a broader campaign targeting Muslim educational institutions rather than a routine educational reform, expressing concern that it would further marginalize the Muslim community.
The latest development comes amid a series of actions against madrasas by the Uttar Pradesh government, including surveys, closures, demolition drives and increased administrative oversight of Islamic seminaries.
Muslim organizations and human rights advocates have argued that these measures disproportionately target Muslim educational institutions and contribute to growing concerns over discrimination against India’s Muslim minority.
Observers said Maurya’s remarks are consistent with a broader pattern of anti-Muslim rhetoric by BJP leaders, who have repeatedly portrayed Islamic institutions and practices through a security lens. Rights groups have warned that such statements fuel religious polarization, reinforce prejudice against Muslims and undermine communal harmony.
