West Bengal Shuts Down 252 Unauthorised Madrasas and Serves Show-Cause Notices to 100 Others

In a major crackdown on unapproved educational institutions, the West Bengal government has decided to shut down 252 unauthorised madrasas across the state.

Furthermore, show-cause notices have been issued to 100 other institutions following operational irregularities, as part of a regulatory drive spearheaded by the Minorities’ Affairs and Madrasah Education Department.

A comprehensive survey conducted across Kolkata and 22 districts revealed that approximately 2,396 madrasas were operating without valid government approval or proper infrastructure.

Many of these institutions, functioning under various titles including Khariji madrasas, lacked standard oversight and adequate educational frameworks, raising serious concerns regarding student welfare. Acting on the survey findings, the administration has directed district authorities to implement closure orders for the first batch of 252 illegal institutions. Meanwhile, 100 other madrasas found with critical discrepancies have been served show-cause notices, with authorities warning of immediate closure if they fail to furnish valid legal documents and satisfactory explanations within the stipulated timeframe.

State Minister for Minority Development Khudiram Tudu stated that all legally approved madrasas complying with established regulations will continue their normal operations, while strict action will be taken against unverified entities. The decision has triggered discussions regarding the future academic continuity of the affected students. However, the government maintained that the overarching objective of this drive is to enforce regulatory compliance and safeguard the educational standards and interests of the students.