The debate over madrassas registration has been simmering for years, but in recent times, it has gained new urgency. Following the events of 9/11 and with Pakistan's commitment to the National Action Plan (NAP), the regulation of religious seminaries has become an essential issue, not just for the sake of national security, but also for the future of the country's education system.

Madrassas, which have historically been seen as independent institutions, are now under scrutiny — both domestically and internationally. The rise of extremism, the lack of modern educational frameworks, and the fact that many seminaries operate without official oversight, have made it necessary for the government to step in. The outdated legal framework of the Societies Registration Act of 1860, which has been used to register these seminaries, is no longer suitable. Amendments have been introduced to address these concerns, but political and legal challenges remain, particularly from influential political figures like Maulana Fazlur Rehman. He has continuously called for madrassas to be placed under various ministries — from education to interior and industries — creating confusion and delays.

Yet, despite the political back-and-forth, one thing is clear: registering and regulating mudarrassahs is no longer just a matter of policy — it’s a necessary step toward the future of Pakistan’s education system and the well-being of its citizens.

The political tug-of-war

The complexity of the madrassa registration debate is amplified by the political dynamics surrounding it. Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s shifting demands on which ministry should oversee religious seminaries highlight a fundamental issue: the battle for control. These seminaries have been a source of influence for political figures, and the question of which ministry will have oversight is, at times, about power as much as it is about policy.

The legal aspects add to the confusion. The devolution of education policy under the 18th Amendment has made education a provincial matter, and yet, the federal government needs to create a uniform system to regulate madrassas. This has led to legal contradictions that need to be resolved, which is why the President’s return of the bill with objections is entirely understandable. Rushing the process without the necessary coordination between federal and provincial governments has left the bill open to criticism. However, these technical problems are solvable, and with a little more time and cooperation, a practical solution can be found.

The real challenge, however, isn’t just about legalities or ministry oversight — it’s about the broader implications of regulating these institutions. The question we should ask is: why is it so important to register and regulate mudarrassahs in the first place?

Why madrassa registration matters

Accountability and Transparency: Many madrassas are funded through private donations, some from abroad, but without oversight. This lack of regulation has raised concerns about how the funds are being used. Are they being spent on educational needs, or are they being misdirected? By registering mudarrassahs, the government can ensure that these institutions are held accountable. Registration would make it possible for funds to be audited and monitored, ensuring they are used for their intended purpose — the education of students.

Modernizing Education: One of the most significant issues with mudarrassahs is their curriculum, which is often outdated and narrowly focused on religious studies. While these institutions play a vital role in preserving religious knowledge, the world has changed. To prepare students for the realities of the 21st century, religious seminaries need to offer a broader curriculum — one that includes not only Islamic studies but also modern subjects like mathematics, science, and technology. Registering madrassas and integrating them into Pakistan’s national education system would allow for a more balanced, well-rounded education. This modernization isn’t just about making mudarrassahs more relevant; it’s about giving their students the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

Ensuring National Security and Social Harmony: Many critics argue that madrassas are breeding grounds for extremism. While there are undoubtedly instances of some seminaries being linked to extremist ideologies, it is essential to recognize that the vast majority of madrassas are not involved in such activities. However, the lack of regulation leaves these institutions vulnerable to misuse. By registering mudarrassahs and placing them under the supervision of the Ministry of Education (or another relevant body), the government can ensure that these institutions are aligned with national security goals. At the same time, a regulated system could foster social harmony by promoting peace, tolerance, and respect for all communities. An inclusive educational framework, where students learn both religious and secular knowledge, could serve as a bridge between different segments of society, reducing misunderstandings and fostering mutual respect.

Protecting Rights of Teachers and Students: The absence of formal regulation means that teachers and students in mudarrassahs have little protection when it comes to their rights. Teachers often work long hours for little pay, and students may face exploitation or abuse. Registration would ensure that mudarrassahs comply with labor laws and educational standards. Teachers would have access to fair wages, job security, and benefits, while students would be protected from exploitation and provided with a safe, supportive learning environment.

Providing Opportunities for Growth: By registering madrassas, the government could also create opportunities for these institutions to access grants, incentives, and resources that could help improve their infrastructure, teaching methods, and overall student welfare. In return, seminaries would be required to adhere to educational standards, ensuring that they contribute positively to Pakistan’s national development. It’s a win-win scenario — both the government and mudarrassahs benefit from greater cooperation, transparency, and accountability.

Need to transcend politics

While political figures like Maulana Fazlur Rehman may continue to use madrassa registration as a bargaining chip in their broader political agenda, the reality is that this issue should transcend politics. The goal should not be to control or manipulate these institutions, but to ensure they are integrated into Pakistan’s national education framework in a way that benefits everyone — from the students to the broader society.

The technical issues with the proposed amendments are valid but solvable. A more collaborative approach, where federal and provincial governments work together, would ensure that madrassas can be effectively regulated without compromising their autonomy or alienating the communities they serve. By finding common ground and focusing on the long-term benefits of madrassa registration, Pakistan can move toward an education system that is both modern and inclusive, while respecting the cultural and religious values that are deeply rooted in the country.

Madrassa registration is not just a policy debate; it is a step toward a more progressive and inclusive Pakistan. By ensuring accountability, modernizing the curriculum, protecting the rights of teachers and students, and fostering national unity, registering madarrassahs can transform these institutions into powerful agents of positive change. Rather than being an obstacle to progress, this reform can bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, providing a platform for future generations of Pakistanis to thrive in both religious and secular realms. The time to act is now — for the sake of Pakistan’s future.

(The author is pursuing a postgraduate degree in IR from International Islamic University, Pakistan. Views expressed are personal. She can be reached at zonishaahmed7@gmail.com )