The government sought more time to focus on madrassa reforms amid the JUI-F deadline.
By - News Beat
ISLAMABAD: With the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazal (JUI-F) issuing its December 8 ultimatum, the government has sought additional time to deliberate on the controversial madrassa reforms bill. Maulana Fazlur Rehman-led JUI(F) has pressed for immediate action, and has warned of protests if the government fails to accede to their demands by the deadline.
The Madrasah Bill, which proposes reforms to standardize education in religious madrasas across Pakistan, has sparked intense debate. While supporters see it as a step towards modernizing the education system and promoting uniformity, critics, including the JUI-F, have raised concerns about perceived government overreach and threats to religious autonomy. Concerns have been expressed.
The position of JUIF
The JUI-F has maintained a strong position, arguing that madrassa reforms must respect the freedom of religious institutions and not impose unnecessary restrictions. Speaking to the media, party officials accused the government of not fulfilling the promises made during earlier talks. "We have been patient, but the government must act now. Our demands are clear, and we will not tolerate any further delay," said a senior JUI-F leader.
Government's response
In response, the government has appealed for more time to "responsibly legislate" on the issue. Officials have cited the need for wider consultation with stakeholders to ensure reforms strike a balance between modernization and respect for religious sentiments.
Addressing a press conference, Federal Minister for Education and Vocational Training Madad Ali Sindhi said that we understand the concerns of religious scholars and madrassa administrators. This is a sensitive issue, and we are committed to finding a solution that maintains academic standards without compromising religious values."
Important Issues in the Bill
The purpose of the Madrasa Reform Bill is to:
Integrate modern subjects like maths, science and IT into madrassa curriculum.
Registration and regulation of religious schools should be standardized.
Improve transparency in funding and management practices.
However, critics argue that these measures could lead to excessive state intervention, potentially undermining the traditional role of madrassas in society.
What's next?
With the December 8 deadline just a few hours away, political analysts predict a fierce contest between the government and the JUI-F. While the government insists it is acting in good faith, the JUI-F leadership has indicated its readiness to intensify its protests if its demands are not met.
For now, all eyes are on Islamabad as stakeholders hope for a resolution that averts political unrest while addressing the pressing need for education reforms.
Published in News Beat on December 8th, 2024