Owaisi Defends Madrasas Amid Political Criticism in Uttar Pradesh
In a recent statement, Asaduddin Owaisi, leader of AIMIM, criticized political figures in Uttar Pradesh for their attacks on madrasas. He defended the historical and constitutional legitimacy of these institutions, linking them to India's independence struggle. Owaisi specifically targeted Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, questioning the motives behind the criticism. He highlighted that many prominent Indian leaders, including the first President Rajendra Prasad, received their education in madrasas. Owaisi's remarks underscore the importance of these institutions in India's cultural and educational landscape.
Aug 5, 2026, 18:44 IST
Owaisi's Response to Political Attacks on Madrasas
Asaduddin Owaisi, the leader of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), targeted political critics of Islamic institutions on Wednesday. He specifically condemned the remarks made by senior leaders in Uttar Pradesh that were directed against madrasas. Accusing these critics of lacking a solid political foundation, Owaisi defended the historical and constitutional legitimacy of madrasas in a post on 'X'. He emphasized their deep connection to India's struggle for independence and its rich cultural heritage.
In his criticism of Uttar Pradesh's Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, Owaisi remarked that Maurya can only attack madrasas because his position is merely a 'stool'. He questioned how those who admire the British could appreciate madrasas, which were central to the resistance against colonial rule. Owaisi highlighted that madrasas produced countless freedom fighters, contrasting them with figures like Savarkar, who he claimed wrote mercy petitions to the British. He stressed the historical significance of madrasas, noting that many prominent Indian figures received their early education in such institutions.
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Owaisi pointed out that India's first President, Rajendra Prasad, studied at a madrasa. Notable literary figures like Munshi Premchand and Raja Ram Mohan Roy also received their education in madrasas. Article 30 of the Constitution grants every minority community the right to establish and manage their own educational institutions. Historically, many significant Islamic educational institutions and networks of madrasas, such as the Darul Uloom Deoband established in 1866, played an active role in the struggle against British colonialism. Scholars associated with these networks participated vigorously in movements like the Khilafat Movement and the broader fight for independence. In his autobiography, India's first President recounted being sent to a local maktab in his childhood, where he learned Persian under the guidance of a 'Maulvi Sahib'.