New Delhi, September 14 (Daily Kiran) : Actor-turned-politician Mithun Chakraborty has voiced his support for the West Bengal government’s decision to take action against unrecognized madrasas lacking government funding. He cited national security concerns as a key reason for this move.
Chakraborty, who is set to serve as a cultural advisor in the government led by Suvendu Adhikari, justified the closure of over 250 madrasas and the issuance of notices to 100 others. He stressed the importance of investigating the funding methods of these minority institutions to ensure the money is used for legitimate purposes.
His remarks came a day after the Bengal government announced it would close 252 unapproved madrasas and issue show-cause notices to 100 more as part of a review of Islamic educational institutions across the state.
“When we talk about madrasas, there is usually someone behind them providing funding and management. It is crucial to determine whether that money is being used for the right reasons or for wrong purposes. We must closely monitor this issue for the sake of national security,” Chakraborty stated.
He also pointed out that previous administrations had not taken this matter seriously, emphasizing that it can no longer be overlooked given its implications for the country’s safety.
Reports indicate that most of the 252 madrasas slated for closure are linked to the ‘Khariji’ sect, with at least 44 located in Malda, 37 in North Dinajpur, 32 in South 24 Parganas, and 25 each in Nadia and Murshidabad.
According to Minority Affairs Minister Khudiram Tudu, madrasas receiving show-cause notices must present valid approvals or face closure.
The Minority Affairs and Madrasa Education Department conducted a survey to examine the management systems of madrasas, student enrollment, funding sources, and registration status in Kolkata and 22 other districts.
BJP Bengal chief Samik Bhattacharya also defended the government’s actions, stating that the rise of extremism in border areas is alarming. He stressed that it is the state government’s responsibility to curb anti-national activities disguised as education in madrasas.
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