The Uttarakhand government's decision to dissolve the Madrasa Board and replace it with the State Minority Education Authority has drawn mixed reactions in Khatima, the home constituency of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.
Residents expressed varying views on the move. While some described it as a step towards improving the quality of education and creating a more uniform system, others said the government should consult all stakeholders before implementing the reforms.
Several locals said they would welcome the new arrangement if it ensures better education and equal opportunities for children. They believe a common curriculum could help students build stronger academic foundations and improve their career prospects.
Others, however, urged the government to consider the concerns of the minority community. They said the changes should be implemented transparently and with public participation so that the reforms benefit everyone.
Local resident Shakoor Rahman welcomed the decision, saying the new authority could provide minority students with access to both religious and modern education.
"The historic decision taken by the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand will prove highly beneficial for the youth of the minority community. As these young people pursue their education and step out into the world, they will acquire not only 'Deeni Taleem' (Islamic religious education) but also 'Duniyavi Taleem' (worldly education). This will enable them to serve the nation in various capacities... I believe this should be implemented across the entire country," he said.
Another resident, Kamil Khan, also backed the government's decision and thanked Chief Minister Dhami for introducing the new education model.
Khan said bringing minority students under the new authority would help connect them with the mainstream education system. He added that they would study the NCERT curriculum while continuing to receive religious education.
He said the new framework would give students access to subjects such as Hindi and English along with religious studies, helping them prepare for better educational and employment opportunities in the future.
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