Hindutva Groups Demand Closure of 400-Year-Old Hyderabad Madrasa

Hyderabad: The peaceful rhythm of life in Hyderabad’s Balapur was disrupted recently as Hindutva groups staged a protest outside Madrasa Noomania, demanding the closure of the centuries-old institution. The madrasa operates within Masjid-e-Hussaini, a Qutb Shahi-era mosque, and has long served as a center of religious learning and community engagement. The protest reflects a growing trend of politically motivated actions aimed at religious institutions, often under the pretext of unverified allegations.

Historical Significance of Madrasa Noomania

Madrasa Noomania, housed inside a nearly 400-year-old mosque, has been a hub for spiritual and educational activities for generations. The mosque continues to host five daily prayers, while the madrasa provides both religious instruction and basic education to local children. The institution is a symbol of Hyderabad’s rich historical and cultural fabric, representing the city’s long-standing tradition of communal coexistence and educational service.

Nature of the Protest

According to eyewitness reports, demonstrators gathered at the madrasa entrance, raised slogans, and demanded its closure. The protesters alleged vague “violations” by the madrasa but provided no concrete evidence. Media coverage indicates that the demonstration was intended more to attract attention and create communal tension than to address genuine concerns regarding the madrasa’s operations.

Claims by Protesters

The allegations by the demonstrators were unclear and unverified. Reports suggested that claims of misconduct or rule violations were generalized, lacking any legal or factual basis. This approach points to a politically driven attempt to provoke unrest and intimidate the madrasa staff and students, rather than a sincere concern for education or law enforcement.

Response of Madrasa Management

The madrasa administration firmly rejected the allegations as false and baseless. Officials highlighted that the institution operates under full legal compliance, provides structured religious and general education programs, and has a long record of service without any untoward incidents. They emphasized that the madrasa caters exclusively to local students, reinforcing its role as a community-based educational institution.

Support from Local Community

The madrasa confirmed that all students are from Telangana, directly countering claims of outsiders being enrolled. Families in the surrounding area have consistently supported the institution, acknowledging its role in providing a safe and disciplined environment for learning. This local backing underscores the madrasa’s integral role in Hyderabad’s educational and spiritual life.

Political Context of the Protest

Amjadullah Khan, spokesperson for Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT), condemned the protest as a deliberate effort to incite communal tensions. He described the demonstration as a political maneuver aimed at creating divisions and undermining peaceful coexistence. Khan emphasized that the madrasa has functioned for decades without incident, highlighting the politically motivated nature of the current agitation.

Criticism of Police Inaction

Khan further criticized local police for their passive response during the protest. Demonstrators reportedly raised anti-Muslim slogans for nearly two hours without interference, raising questions about the authorities’ commitment to protecting religious and educational institutions from politically motivated harassment. The inaction has fueled concerns about security and accountability in sensitive communal areas.

Impact on Students and Families

The protest created unease among madrasa students, staff, and local residents. While the institution continued its daily schedule, the presence of demonstrators heightened fears of potential communal friction. Families expressed concern that such politically charged demonstrations could escalate tensions and disrupt the educational environment for children.

Madrasa’s Commitment to Cooperation

Despite the protest, madrasa officials reiterated their readiness to cooperate with government verification and any inquiries. The management emphasized that the madrasa would continue its educational programs without interruption while maintaining transparency and legal compliance. This position underscores the institution’s resilience and commitment to lawful operation under pressure.

Media Coverage and Public Opinion

Media responses to the protest were mixed. Some outlets amplified the protesters’ claims, while others highlighted the madrasa’s legal compliance and historical service to the community. Residents in Balapur largely expressed support for the madrasa, recognizing its educational and spiritual contributions. The controversy highlights the influence of media framing on public opinion in matters of communal sensitivity.

Broader Implications for Religious Institutions

The agitation against Madrasa Noomania reflects a wider pattern of targeting religious educational institutions under politically motivated campaigns. Such incidents threaten the functioning of institutions that provide essential learning and spiritual guidance. Experts note that politically driven protests can disturb communal harmony, create insecurity among students, and weaken the societal role of centuries-old educational centers.

Preserving Historical and Educational Heritage

Madrasa Noomania has operated peacefully for centuries, remaining a vital center for learning and religious observance. Protecting such institutions is essential to preserve Hyderabad’s cultural, historical, and educational heritage. The incident emphasizes the need for proactive measures by authorities and community leaders to safeguard religious and educational centers from politically motivated harassment.

Conclusion

The call for closing Madrasa Noomania is a clear example of the pressures faced by religious and educational institutions in politically sensitive environments. While Hindutva groups staged a protest based on unverified claims, the madrasa continues to operate legally, peacefully, and with strong community support. The event underscores the necessity of vigilance against communal provocation, ensuring that historic institutions can maintain their educational and spiritual roles without interference. Hyderabad’s Balapur community remains committed to protecting centuries-old institutions like Madrasa Noomania, preserving both communal harmony and the city’s rich cultural heritage.