In a significant development, the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court has ordered the reopening of nearly 30 madrasas in Shravasti that were recently sealed by local authorities. The decision was delivered on Thursday by Justice Pankaj Bhatia, who was hearing a batch of petitions filed on behalf of the affected institutions.
The petitioners, represented by senior advocate Prashant Chandra, contended that the closure of the madrasas was carried out without proper communication or an opportunity for the institutions to present their case. Chandra argued that the notices issued lacked procedural fairness, violating principles of natural justice.
The state government’s counsel opposed the plea, maintaining that the actions taken were within legal bounds. However, the court underscored the importance of due process, ruling that educational institutions cannot remain sealed in the absence of adherence to established legal procedures.
While granting interim relief, the court clarified that authorities still have the power to issue fresh closure orders, but only after ensuring that all legal protocols are followed and the affected parties are duly heard.
The High Court had earlier provided temporary relief in June, halting the immediate enforcement of the closure orders. With the latest directive, the sealed madrasas are expected to reopen and resume classes, pending any further action by the authorities in accordance with the law.
The ruling marks a reaffirmation of the judiciary’s role in safeguarding procedural fairness, especially in actions impacting educational and religious institutions.
