“Do not undermine our religious schools for ‘ghost madaris’; if issues remain unresolved, we will take the matter to the streets, not the Assembly,” says Maulana Fazlur Rehman.
During a session of the National Assembly, JUI-F Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman strongly opposed any amendments to the Madaris Bill, warning the government of nationwide protests if their demands are not met.
He criticized the influence of international organizations like the IMF and FATF on Pakistan’s legislative process, questioning whether the country’s laws are to be dictated by external entities. “If we are slaves, then say it openly. We refuse to let our sovereignty be compromised,” Maulana stated firmly.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman reiterated that the Madaris Bill has already become an Act under the Constitution. “The President’s refusal to sign the bill after the stipulated 10 days makes it law. Any further review or presentation in the Assembly is a constitutional violation,” he argued.
Recalling past incidents, he referenced former President Arif Alvi’s failure to sign a bill, which subsequently became law. “This has set a legal precedent; the President cannot block legislation beyond the constitutional time limit,” he said.
Addressing concerns regarding the registration of madaris (religious schools), Maulana blamed the government for creating unnecessary hurdles. He emphasized that Islamic schools have always upheld the Constitution and law. “For 24 years, we have proven our commitment to the system. So why are we still being tested?”
He also questioned why madaris are being singled out when numerous other educational institutions exist. “Why the division? Is it to create conflicts among religious scholars? If so, we will not fall for it,” he declared.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman asserted that traditional madaris would survive with or without government registration. “Even without bank accounts, funds will continue to flow, and the system will endure,” he said, warning that any deliberate attempt to destabilize the situation would be met with strong resistance.
“Do not undermine genuine religious institutions for the sake of ghost or fabricated madaris. We will not accept any amendments to the bill, and if our concerns are not addressed, the decision will not be made in the Assembly but on the streets,” he concluded.
This highlights Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s firm stance on the Madaris Bill and his resistance to external pressures or amendments, while also issuing a veiled ultimatum to the government.
