Madaris reforms discussed at Nacta HQ

In pursuance of directions of the federal minister for interior, a meeting was held at National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) Headquarters to discuss matter related to registration and madaris reforms. The meeting was presided over by National Coordinator (NC) NACTA, Ihsan Ghani and attended by the federal and provincial stakeholders and representatives of Ittehad Tanzeem-e-Madaris Pakistan (ITMP), led by Qari Hanif Jalandhari.
During the meeting Ghani explained the background and rationale behind developing data and registration forms for madaris, said a press release issued, here on Tuesday.
The key points came under discussion in the meeting included a) progress on registration and data collection of madaris according to the forms developed with consensus of all federal & provincial stakeholders, ITMP and subsequently shared by NACTA, b) adoption of single authority and uniform format for registration and data collection of madaris, c) rationalizing the list of IV Schedulers, d) policy for collection of animal skin and hides e) facilitating the madaris in opening of bank accounts, f) grant of permission to madaris to hold religious congregations and g) preparation of policy on security of at-risk persons including religious scholars/ leaders on account of potential threats.
After having detailed deliberations and discussions, following decisions having been taken including with regard to issue of registration of madaris, it was agreed that the provinces will discuss the points raised by ITMP in this meeting with their administrative and political leadership and hold meeting with ITMP to resolve the issues and expedite the process of registration.
The chair reiterated that verification of the particulars submitted by madaris may be done as per the specified procedures, but timelines must be fixed and verification must be completed within stipulated time period to avoid unnecessary delay. Also the registration must be done on standardized format and under single authority.
The meeting also agreed that ITMP will share a list of madaris facing issues in opening of bank accounts with the NACTA and the SBP will share the circulars notified for establishing consumer protection department to address the grievances of customers with the NACTA and the ITMP.
The meeting agreed that considering the issues raised by the ITMP regarding 4th schedulers, the provinces will revisit the lists and exclude the names, if any, of individuals that have been placed without concrete evidence.
The issue of provision of security of persons at risks including religious scholars and leaders will be discussed with provinces and intelligence agencies.
PR