Maharashtra Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA Abu Azmi on Thursday launched a fierce attack on BJP leader and Minister Nitesh Rane over his demand for a state-wide investigation into madrasas, accusing him of deliberately attempting to malign the Muslim community.
Rane had earlier raised concerns about an illegal madrasa in Nandurbar’s Akkalkuwa taluka, where a Yemeni national was allegedly involved in planning terror activities. Citing security risks, he urged the Maharashtra government to probe all madrasas to check for extremist links, specifically mentioning groups like the Taliban.
Reacting strongly, Azmi dismissed Rane’s claims, stating, “I think Nitesh Rane should be given a position where his job is to shock and trouble Muslims, defame them, and abuse them. Every morning, he wakes up thinking of new ways to stay in the news.”
He further defended madrasas, asserting that they instill good values, including brotherhood and patriotism. “An individual can be wrong, but a madrasa cannot be wrong,” he remarked, rejecting blanket allegations against religious institutions.
Azmi also pointed out that the presence of illegal immigrants in a madrasa should not be used as a pretext to target all such institutions. Drawing a parallel, he said, “Many Indians live illegally in America, the UK, or Saudi Arabia after their visas expire, but cases are not filed against those who employ them. This is just Rane’s cheap politics.”
To counter allegations, Azmi suggested installing CCTV cameras in madrasas. “Let people see for themselves that these institutions focus on education and discipline, not illegal activities,” he added.
Rane Stands Firm on Madrasa Probe
Rane, on his part, stood by his demand for a probe, claiming that “if madrasas are found to be involved in anti-national activities, they should be shut down.” He also revealed that he had written to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, requesting a thorough investigation into whether madrasas were truly serving their educational purpose or fostering extremism.
The BJP leader had earlier courted controversy in January by calling for a ban on burqas during Board examinations, arguing that it could facilitate cheating and security risks.
With tensions escalating over the madrasa issue, the debate continues to spark political and religious divisions in Maharashtra.
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