Category: Dehradun

Call for Review of Uttarakhand Minority Education Authority Rules; Memorandum Submitted to Chief Minister

 Khursheed Ahmad Siddiqui raises concerns over madrasa recognition, students’ future, and religious education, urges the government to adopt a clear and balanced policy.

Report: Amaanullah Usmani

Dehradun: Social worker Khursheed Ahmad Siddiqui has submitted a detailed memorandum via email to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, urging the state government to reconsider the provisions of the newly implemented Uttarakhand Minority Education Authority framework, which came into effect on July 1, 2026. Copies of the memorandum have also been sent to the Chief Secretary of Uttarakhand and the Chairman of the Uttarakhand Minority Education Authority.

In his memorandum, Siddiqui stated that madrasas are not merely educational institutions but religious and social establishments built and maintained through donations, charity, and Zakat contributed by the Muslim community. Referring to a recent statement by Maulana Arshad Madani, he noted that, from an Islamic perspective, mosques and madrasas hold comparable religious significance and are governed by similar religious principles.

The memorandum points out that the state currently recognizes only 452 madrasas that were previously registered with the Uttarakhand Madrasa Board, while nearly 250 others are reportedly being treated as unauthorized. Siddiqui expressed concern that the fresh registration process and compliance with new regulatory standards may prove difficult for many institutions, potentially leading to their closure.

He suggested that the 452 previously registered madrasas should be granted automatic recognition so that the ongoing academic session and students’ education are not disrupted.

The memorandum also raises concerns about the academic burden on students. According to Siddiqui, if madrasa students are required to attend regular schools while continuing their religious studies, they may have to study for nearly 14 hours a day. He questioned whether such a schedule would be practical or beneficial for children between the ages of 4 and 16, and whether it could adversely affect their physical and mental development.

The memorandum further asks whether similar arrangements are being applied to the religious educational institutions of other minority communities, including Buddhist monasteries, Bible schools, Sikh, and Jain religious institutions, or whether the policy is being implemented exclusively for Muslim madrasas.

Siddiqui has sought clarity from the government on several issues, including the future of madrasas that may fail to meet the prescribed standards, alternative arrangements for students pursuing religious education, educational pathways for students wishing to pursue advanced Islamic studies after completing Hifz-e-Quran, the financial implications of the new system, and the government’s plans regarding qualified teachers and institutional funding.

Concluding the memorandum, Siddiqui appealed to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to review the law in the interest of students’ educational and psychological well-being. He also urged the government to ensure the protection of madrasa properties established through public donations, so that such institutions do not become entangled in unnecessary disputes or litigation.

Uttarakhand Launches Minority Education Authority, Replaces Madrasa Board

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurates the new authority, says the initiative will ensure modern, inclusive, and quality education for all minority students in line with NEP 2020.

Report: Amaanullah Usmani

Dehradun, July 1, 2026: In a major reform aimed at strengthening the state’s education system, the Uttarakhand Government has officially launched the Uttarakhand State Minority Education Authority from July 1, 2026, replacing the existing Madrasa Board with a new institutional framework.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the new authority at a ceremony held at the Chief Minister’s residence, where he also distributed recognition certificates to various minority educational institutions. On the occasion, he presented NCERT textbooks to students of minority schools.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the government’s objective is to provide every child with quality, modern, and value-based education, enabling them to build a strong future. He emphasized that Uttarakhand has a rich legacy of knowledge, education, and spirituality, and the government aspires to make the state a national model in the field of education.

Dhami clarified that the decision to establish the Minority Education Authority is not intended to affect the identity, traditions, or cultural heritage of any community. Instead, it seeks to ensure equal educational opportunities for children from all notified minority communities across the state.

Under the new framework, students will continue to remain connected to their cultural roots while also gaining access to modern subjects such as Science, Mathematics, Computer Education, Technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, and Skill Development. He stressed that in today’s rapidly evolving digital era, no child in Uttarakhand should be deprived of modern education.

The Chief Minister further stated that the new authority will ensure equal representation and opportunities for minority communities that previously lacked adequate participation in the education system. He added that the initiative is fully aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and complements the state’s ongoing efforts to promote digital education, smart classrooms, vocational training, startups, and future-ready skills.

According to the government, the Minority Education Authority will function not only as a regulatory body for granting institutional recognition but also as a mechanism to improve educational quality, strengthen teacher training, ensure transparency, and effectively implement the National Education Policy.

Dhami appealed to educational institutions, religious leaders, academicians, and members of civil society to extend their full support to the new system. Expressing confidence in the initiative, he said the authority would positively impact the lives of thousands of students and help establish Uttarakhand as a leading state in inclusive and quality education.

Action Sought Against Hate Speech in Dehradun; Social Groups Warn of Mass Protest

Memorandum Submitted to DM and SSP, Demanding Strict Action Against Communal Hate Speech and Arrest of All Accused in Beragiwala Murder Case

Dehradun | By Amaanullah Usmani

Representatives of several social organisations and political parties on Monday met Dehradun District Magistrate Ashish Chauhan and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Pramendra Doval, demanding strict legal action against individuals allegedly spreading communal hatred in the district.

The delegation claimed that six to seven individuals have been repeatedly delivering inflammatory speeches and spreading hate through public platforms and social media. They warned that if prompt action is not taken, they will launch a large-scale public protest.

District Magistrate Ashish Chauhan said this is his first posting in Dehradun and assured the delegation that he would gather all relevant information and direct the police to take appropriate legal action against anyone found violating the law.

SSP Pramendra Doval informed the delegation that a criminal case has already been registered against one of the accused individuals and that investigations are underway. He added that action against other alleged offenders would also be initiated based on available evidence.

The delegation alleged that despite clear video footage of hate speeches delivered at various locations from Kotdwar to Beragiwala, police have often registered FIRs against “unknown persons” instead of naming those allegedly responsible.

A memorandum was also submitted demanding the immediate arrest of all accused in the Beragiwala murder case involving Vinod Kumar and the strictest possible legal action against them.

The memorandum further alleged that following the murder, certain communal elements attempted to disturb public peace by making provocative speeches, spreading hatred, and allegedly inciting violence. The delegation argued that such statements pose a serious threat to communal harmony and public order.

The representatives also referred to a Supreme Court directive, which observed that in cases involving hate speech, particularly in Uttarakhand, the police should not wait for formal complaints but must register FIRs suo motu whenever cognizable offences are evident. They expressed concern that despite publicly available evidence, several recent cases have still been registered against unidentified persons rather than those allegedly responsible.

The delegation included Kamla Pant, Nirmala Bisht, Vimla Koli, Manju Balodi (Uttarakhand Mahila Manch); Hari Om Pali and Trilochan Bhatt (Uttarakhand Insaniyat Manch); Kamlesh Khantwal (Bharat Gyan Vigyan Samiti); Rajendra Shah (Chetna Andolan); Indresh Maikhuri (CPI-ML); Rajendra Purohit (CPM); Sujata Paul (Congress); Pawan Kshetri; Talafat Hussain; Manish; Almashuddin Siddiqui, and several other social and political activists.

Khursheed Ahmad Siddiqui Appeals to President Over Bairagiwala Case, Raises Constitutional Concerns

Report: Amaanullah Usmani

Dehradun, Social activist Khursheed Ahmad Siddiqui has written a detailed letter to the Hon’ble President of India, seeking intervention in the aftermath of the Bairagiwala murder case in Dehradun Uttarakhand and raising serious concerns regarding constitutional values, due process, and the rule of law.

In his letter, Siddiqui stated that an eleven-member delegation visited Bairagiwala to understand the ground reality and meet the victim’s family. According to the family members, the tragic incident stemmed from a long-standing personal dispute and was not the result of communal tension. They reportedly emphasized that Hindus and Muslims in the village have traditionally shared cordial and harmonious relations.

The delegation also visited the affected area to assess the damage caused after the incident, including houses that were allegedly vandalized and set on fire. Siddiqui questioned how such acts of violence and destruction could occur despite the presence of law enforcement agencies.

In his appeal, he argued that justice in a democracy must be delivered strictly through constitutional and legal procedures. He expressed concern over what he described as the growing trend of punitive actions against accused persons’ properties and families before the completion of judicial proceedings.

The letter further raises questions about mob violence, collective punishment, and the targeting of innocent family members who may have no involvement in a crime. Siddiqui urged that punishment should be imposed only after due legal process and only upon those proven guilty by a competent court of law.

Appealing to the President as the guardian of the Constitution, he requested appropriate intervention to ensure that constitutional principles, the rule of law, and equal justice are upheld in the Bairagiwala case and in similar incidents across the country.

Siddiqui concluded by stating that democracy can remain strong only when justice is not only done but is also seen to be done fairly and impartially.

Advocates Submit Memorandum to DM Over Bairagiwala Incident, Seek Strict Action Against Hate Speech and Violence

Report: Amaanullah Usmani

Dehradun, June 22: A delegation of advocates in Dehradun submitted a memorandum to the District Magistrate demanding strict and impartial action regarding the recent incidents of violence, vandalism, and alleged hate speech in Bairagiwala and nearby areas. The advocates urged the administration to uphold the rule of law and prevent any attempts to disturb communal harmony.

In the memorandum, the advocates expressed concern over the recent developments in Bairagiwala, stating that Dehradun has long been known for its peaceful coexistence, social harmony, and brotherhood. They alleged that certain anti-social elements are trying to create tension and disturb the city’s peaceful atmosphere.

The memorandum called for a fair investigation into incidents of violence, arson, and property damage and demanded stringent action against all those found responsible. The advocates emphasized that no individual or group should be allowed to take the law into their own hands.

The delegation also raised concerns about alleged hate speech and inflammatory statements being circulated through public platforms and social media. They urged authorities to take immediate legal action against individuals responsible for spreading communal hatred and creating fear among citizens.

Further, the memorandum sought an impartial inquiry into the role of administrative and police officials involved in handling the situation. The advocates stated that if any officer is found to have acted with bias or negligence, appropriate action should be taken.

The memorandum also demanded swift legal action against future instances of hate speech, enhanced security for affected individuals, and effective measures to maintain peace and law and order in the region.

The advocates expressed confidence that the district administration would take the matter seriously and ensure strict legal action against all guilty persons, regardless of their identity or affiliation, to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.

Irregularities Confirmed in Probe, Yet No Punishment; Serious Questions Raised Over Cantonment Board’s Role

Alleged irregularities in PM Poshan Scheme: Delay in action deepens suspicion of ‘shielding the accused

Dehradun: Serious questions are being raised over the functioning of the Cantonment Board after no final action has been taken against former Headmistress Smt. Mamta Guleria of Cantt Junior High School, Premnagar, despite an inquiry report confirming alleged irregularities under the PM POSHAN (Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman) Scheme and the issuance of a formal charge sheet.

According to official documents, a complaint against Smt. Mamta Guleria was filed on the Chief Minister’s Helpline Portal, following which an inquiry was ordered by the District Education Department. The investigation was conducted by the Principal of Government Inter College, Gaziwala, Dehradun. Based on the findings, the District Education Officer (DEO) wrote to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Cantonment Board on November 4, 2024, directing action under the Cantonment Board Employees Service Rules, 2021.

Subsequently, a three-member preliminary inquiry committee constituted by the Cantonment Board also confirmed irregularities related to the distribution of rice and pulses and maintenance of records under the PM POSHAN scheme. Acting on the inquiry findings, the Board resolved in its meeting held on March 27, 2025, to issue a charge sheet to Smt. Guleria, which was formally served on April 4, 2025.

However, despite the complaint, inquiry findings, and issuance of the charge sheet, more than a year has passed without any final disciplinary action. The prolonged delay has triggered widespread speculation and raised concerns about whether influential elements within the system are attempting to shield the accused from accountability.

Adding to the pressure, the District Project Office of PM POSHAN, Dehradun, issued a strongly worded letter on June 23, 2025, reminding the Cantonment Board that PM POSHAN is one of the Government of India’s flagship welfare schemes and that negligence or irregularities at any level cannot be tolerated.

The letter reportedly described the delay in taking appropriate action as “highly regrettable and unfortunate” and directed the Board to submit an immediate status report so that updates could be uploaded on the Chief Minister’s Helpline Portal and other official platforms.

The biggest question now is: Why has final action not been taken despite confirmed irregularities, an official inquiry report, and a charge sheet already being issued? Administrative circles are increasingly questioning whether the delay is merely procedural or whether certain officials are intentionally prolonging the matter to provide relief to the accused.

Parents, citizens, and stakeholders are now closely watching the Cantonment Board administration. The coming days may determine whether transparency and accountability prevail or whether yet another case involving a public welfare scheme remains buried in bureaucratic delays.

Major research revelation regarding an Uttarakhand college under the leadership of Dr. Afroz Iqbal

Research Reveals Alarming Trend: 68.5% of Uttarakhand College Students Frequently Absent from Classes

Report by Amaanullah Usmani

Dehradun: A significant research study conducted on increasing student absenteeism, employment-related concerns, and challenges in higher education institutions across Uttarakhand has brought several alarming facts to light. The study was carried out under the leadership and academic guidance of Dr. Afroz Iqbal, Head of the Department of Sociology and Principal Investigator at Shaheed Durga Mall Government Post Graduate College, Doiwala. Research scholars Anjali Sharma, Rajkiran Shah, and Shivam Gairola played an active role in the project.

The survey-based research, conducted over a period of six months, involved 400 students from various government and affiliated colleges across Uttarakhand. The findings revealed that nearly 68.5 percent of students remain absent from regular classes at some level. The study further highlighted that the reasons behind absenteeism extend beyond a lack of interest in academics. Major contributing factors include growing concerns about employment opportunities, financial difficulties, long commuting distances, family responsibilities, and dissatisfaction with the employability relevance of existing academic curricula.

The research also found that a large number of students are prioritizing preparation for competitive examinations. Many respondents believe that coaching institutes and self-study offer better prospects for success in government jobs and other competitive exams. As a result, several students devote more time to exam preparation than to attending regular college classes.

Appreciating the study, Dr. D.P. Bhatt, Principal of the college, described it as a serious effort to understand the real challenges and expectations of students. He congratulated the research team and noted that such studies can play a vital role in making the education system more effective and student-centric.

Speaking about the findings, Dr. Afroz Iqbal emphasized that student absenteeism should not be viewed merely as a matter of discipline. Instead, it must be understood within the broader context of education, employment opportunities, and social realities. He suggested that the introduction of employment-oriented education, effective career counseling, and an academic environment aligned with competitive examination requirements could significantly improve student attendance in colleges.

The study serves as an important wake-up call for policymakers and educational institutions, highlighting the urgent need to bridge the gap between higher education and employment aspirations among students in Uttarakhand.

Uttarakhand’s Pride Lost: Legendary Indian Shooting Coach Jaspal Rana Passes Away at 49

Former Asian Games gold medallist and mentor to Olympic star Manu Bhaker dies after suffering a heart ailment; Indian sports fraternity mourns a huge loss.

New Delhi/Dehradun: Indian shooting has suffered a heartbreaking loss with the untimely demise of renowned shooting coach and former Asian Games gold medallist Jaspal Rana. The 49-year-old, who hailed from Uttarakhand and was widely regarded as one of India’s greatest shooting icons, passed away on Friday while undergoing treatment for a heart-related illness.

According to reports, Rana had recently returned from Germany after attending the ISSF World Cup in Munich, where he was serving as the High-Performance Coach for the Indian pistol shooting team. Sources said he experienced health complications during the flight and was taken directly to a hospital in Delhi after landing. Doctors conducted several tests and inserted a stent, but despite all efforts, he could not be saved.

Jaspal Rana was officially appointed by the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) as the High-Performance Coach for the 25m Pistol event in February 2025. He was credited with introducing a disciplined and demanding training regime that helped shape a new generation of Indian shooters. Under his guidance, the Indian contingent delivered an impressive performance at the Munich World Cup, winning two gold and two silver medals.

A champion both on and off the shooting range, Rana dedicated more than three decades of his life to Indian shooting. As an athlete, he brought glory to the nation by winning multiple medals at the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and Asian Shooting Championships, establishing himself as one of India’s most successful marksmen.

As a coach, his contribution was equally remarkable. He played a crucial role in nurturing young talent and was instrumental in the rise of several top shooters, including two-time Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker. His commitment to developing the next generation of champions earned him the prestigious Dronacharya Award in 2020, one of India’s highest sporting honours.

Jaspal Rana’s passing is being described as an irreparable loss for Indian sports. Tributes have poured in from athletes, coaches, sports officials and fans across the country, all remembering him not only as a legendary shooter but also as a mentor, motivator and true ambassador of Indian sports.

With his achievements, dedication and inspiring legacy, Jaspal Rana will forever remain a shining star in the history of Indian shooting.