Appoint Arabic expert to study Madrasa syllabus, HC tells govt

The High Court on Monday directed the State government to appoint a person who knows to read and understand Arabic language to know the syllabus that is being taught at Mohiddin Jumma Masjid and Darul Uloom Madrasa (Wakf Institutions) in Mangaluru district.

The bench questioned the appellants’ advocate about the use of the word ‘anti-national’ asking him what was ‘anti-national’ in the syllabus and not to use such expressions without knowing.  The bench also observed that if any sort of ‘anti-national’ content found in the syllabus than it will be scrapped immediately without a second thought. 

Mohammed Iqbal and Myyadi, both native of Mangaluru district, have filed writ appeal seeking directions to Mohiddin Jumma Masjid and Darul Uloom Madrasa to teach Samastha Kerala Sunni Vidyabyasa Board syllabus, which teaches Arabic with Kannada translation, instead of Samastha Kerala Islam Matha Vidyabyasa Board, Samasthalayam, Chelari (SKIMVB). The appellants have contended that SKIMVB is an unregistered board and that they are forcing the madrasas of Dakshina Kannada to introduce its syllabus.

The appellants have contended that the single bench had passed an order without application of mind in February 2015, stating that since the Wakf Board has already issued a direction to impart education as per the existing syllabus, no further directions were required. 

Despite government circular and the District Wakf, the  madrasa in question was continuing the syllabus of SKIMVB. The appellants have sought directions to set aside the single bench order. The bench directed the State government to appoint a person well-versed in Arabic language and find out what is in the said syllabus and to submit it to the court. The court resumes the hearing after two weeks.