NCPCR’s Report on Madrasas and Children’s Educational Rights
The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has addressed a letter to Chief Secretaries and administrators of all states and Union Territories. The letter discusses the Commission’s report titled ‘Guardians of Faith or Oppressors of Rights: Constitutional Rights of Children vs. Madrasas’.
Key Findings and Recommendations
The report, consisting of 11 chapters, explores the history of Madrasas and their impact on children’s educational rights. NCPCR recommends halting state funding to Madrasas and closing Madrasa Boards across all regions. The Commission emphasizes the importance of formal education as defined by the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, which aims for equality, social justice, and democracy through inclusive education.
Concerns and Actions
NCPCR Chief Priyank Kanoongo highlights a conflict between children’s fundamental rights and minority community rights. The report suggests that non-Muslim children should be moved from Madrasas to formal schools. It also recommends that Muslim children attending Madrasas be enrolled in formal schools to receive education as per the RTE Act, 2009. These recommendations are subject to a Supreme Court judgment regarding a case in Uttar Pradesh.
Doubts Revealed
NCPCR -: NCPCR stands for the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights. It is an organization in India that works to protect and promote the rights of children.
Madrasas -: Madrasas are educational institutions where children, especially from the Muslim community, learn about Islam and other subjects. They are similar to schools but focus more on religious education.
Right to Education Act, 2009 -: The Right to Education Act, 2009 is a law in India that makes education a fundamental right for children aged 6 to 14 years. It ensures that every child has access to free and compulsory education.
State funding -: State funding refers to money provided by the government to support institutions like schools or Madrasas. The report suggests stopping this funding for Madrasas.
Madrasa Boards -: Madrasa Boards are organizations that oversee the functioning and curriculum of Madrasas. The report recommends closing these boards to ensure children receive formal education.
