Allahabad HC bench split over NHRC role in UP madrassa inquiry
A Division Bench of the Allahabad High Court has issued a split opinion over observations made against the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in a case involving an inquiry into alleged irregularities at 588 madrassas in Uttar Pradesh. The matter was heard on 29 April before Justices Atul Sreedharan and Vivek Saran, arising from a writ petition filed by the Teachers Association, Madaris Arabia and others challenging proceedings stemming from an NHRC complaint.
Background: What the NHRC Complaint Alleged
The complaint before the NHRC alleged that 588 madrassas, reportedly in collusion with officers of the Minority Welfare Department of the Uttar Pradesh government, were receiving grants despite allegedly lacking adequate educational standards, infrastructure, and qualified teachers. The complaint further alleged that appointments were being secured through bribes and commissions. Acting on the complaint, the NHRC directed the Director General, Economic Offences Wing (EOW), Uttar Pradesh, to examine the allegations and submit an action taken report.
Justice Sreedharan's Prima Facie Concerns
Justice Atul Sreedharan took prima facie exception to the NHRC entertaining the complaint, with the court reportedly expressing it was
