Why Have Over 1000 Madrasas Been Closed in PoK?
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Synopsis
Tensions escalate as over 1000 madrasas in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir face closures amid fears of potential Indian strikes. Local authorities cite safety measures in response to rising anxieties following a deadly attack in Pahalgam. This unprecedented action raises concerns about the implications for education and regional stability.
Key Takeaways
- Over 1000 madrasas closed in PoK for safety.
- Closure due to fears of an Indian attack.
- Increased monitoring of foreign flights from India.
- Pakistan suspends domestic flights to northern regions.
- Escalating tensions following the Pahalgam attack.
Islamabad, May 2 (NationPress) More than 1000 madrasas in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have been closed for a minimum of 10 days, as announced by local authorities on Friday.
Trusted sources have informed IANS that the closures are a precautionary measure due to the increasing anxiety surrounding a potential attack by India, which has previously stated that these institutions serve as shelters for terrorists.
Residents are concerned that while a full-scale war with Pakistan might not be imminent, India could still execute targeted strikes in PoK regions along the Line of Control (LoC), reminiscent of the 2019 incidents when Indian Air Force jets targeted the supposed militant hideaway of Maulana Masood Azhar in Balakot’s Jabba area within Mansehra district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province.
“The government has ordered the shutdown of over 1000 madrasas for 10 days, and students have been given holidays,” an official disclosed under the condition of anonymity.
On Wednesday, Pakistan also suspended all domestic flights to Gilgit and Skardu amid rising tensions following the April 22 Pahalgam attack that resulted in the deaths of 26 innocent civilians.
“The decision to halt flights to the northern regions was made after reviewing national airspace safety protocols. All other flights to northern Pakistan have also been temporarily halted as a precaution,” an official stated.
Stringent monitoring of foreign flights has also commenced, with a particular focus on international airlines crossing from India. The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has been directed to examine all incoming foreign aircraft closely.
India has long accused Pakistan of supporting anti-India militant groups, asserting that religious seminaries act as breeding grounds for terrorism. New Delhi has also implicated Islamabad in the Pahalgam terror attack, where Indian nationals were targeted based on their religion.
Conversely, Pakistan denies India’s allegations and suspects that New Delhi is attempting to revisit the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), which was put on hold following the Pahalgam incident, potentially leading to negotiations.
Pakistan has also cautioned India of a “swift, resolute, and decisive response” should it attempt an attack.
“We will not initiate a war. If India commences hostilities against Pakistan, that will be its choice, and how we react will be ours,” stated DG ISPR Lt. General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry.
Additionally, Pakistan has been conducting extensive military exercises near the Indian borders along the LoC and the Working Boundary, demonstrating its preparedness to counter any aggressive actions from India.
Point of View
My perspective remains firmly rooted in national interests. The closure of madrasas in PoK underscores the escalating tensions in the region. While safety is paramount, we must also consider the impact on education and community stability. It is crucial to approach this situation with a balanced view, emphasizing diplomacy and dialogue over conflict.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the madrasas closed in PoK?
The madrasas were shut down as a precautionary measure due to fears of a potential attack by India, which has previously accused these institutions of harboring terrorists.
How long will the madrasas remain closed?
The madrasas are expected to be closed for at least 10 days as announced by local authorities.
What led to the increase in tensions between India and Pakistan?
Tensions escalated following the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, prompting heightened security measures in the region.
What actions has Pakistan taken in response to the tensions?
Pakistan has suspended all domestic flights to Gilgit and Skardu and initiated strict monitoring of foreign flights, particularly those from India.
What is India's stance regarding the madrasas?
India claims that Pakistan uses madrasas as breeding grounds for terrorism and has accused Islamabad of facilitating anti-India militant groups.
