Saturday, 18 MAY 2024 | PNS | DEHRADUN
Following the direction of the National Commission for the Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR) recently inspected a Madarsa in Dehradun district. The commission observed various questionable aspects while inspecting the Madarsa. Stating this, the chairperson of SCPCR Geeta Khanna stated that during the inspection the commission members noted that boys were absent from their classes, as they were observed praying in the school mosque. Additionally, it was observed that all children were wearing religious caps and the girls were wearing hijabs, she said.
She further expressed her dissatisfaction regarding the school’s disruption for Namaz during class time. She also informed that the girls of Madarsa were excluded from the prayer. Considering the prayer activities in the middle of the class, she emphasised the importance of a favourable environment at home for offering Namaz. She also highlighted the potential disruptions to education due to various religious practices. Noting the observation of hijabs on girls in Madarsas, viewed as a religious obligation by teachers, she underscored that education encompasses more than textbook learning and plays a crucial role in fostering complete personal and intellectual growth. She said that she stressed the significance of harmony and expressed concerns about hijabs potentially instilling feelings of insecurity in girls to the officials of Madarsa. Apart from this, she also conveyed the need for understanding and acknowledgment.
Khanna further informed that the commission also recognised that certain classes from America are being held in the Madarsa. However, when questioned, the identity of the teacher overseeing these classes was not revealed. The conduct of the management committee members was described as unfavourable and lacking dignity towards the commission. In light of the inspection, Khanna informed that the commission summoned the Madarsa manager, along with all necessary documentation.
