West Bengal to Close 250 Private Madrasas Over Low Enrolment
West Bengal has decided in principle to close 250 government-recognised private madrasas after December, citing low enrolment and inadequate infrastructure.
The West Bengal Cabinet has taken an in-principle decision to gradually close 250 government-recognised private madrasas, citing very low or negligible enrolment and inadequate infrastructure. The institutions will be allowed to continue classes until December so that the small number of students currently enrolled are not abruptly affected. Administrative action is expected after reports from the institutions are reviewed.
The decision follows a state-wide survey of madrasa institutions. Earlier this month, the government ordered the closure of 252 unauthorised madrasas and issued show-cause notices to around 100 others after inspections found concerns related to approvals and basic infrastructure. Officials have indicated that nearly 2,500 unregistered madrasas could also face phased action in the future.
The Cabinet also approved show-cause notices for another 100 madrasas over alleged irregularities. The government has said the review is focused on institutional functioning, enrolment, infrastructure and regulatory compliance.
Separately, the Cabinet cleared a proposal to recruit around 1.51 lakh personnel across government departments, including 12,000 for the West Bengal Police and 4,000 for Kolkata Police. It also approved a new correctional home in Purba Medinipur and increased grants for Ashram hostels from Rs 1,800 to Rs 3,300.
