A district-wide verification drive of madrasas in Haridwar has revealed a major mismatch in student enrollment data, with nearly 11,000 children recorded in official documents not found during physical verification. The findings have raised concerns over alleged inflated student numbers and possible misuse of government welfare benefits.
According to district administration officials, the verification was conducted under state government directives after complaints were received about inflated enrollment figures in minority educational institutions. The inspection covered 131 registered madrasas across the district and found a significant gap between official records and actual attendance.
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Enrollment Records and Ground Verification Mismatch
Officials said government records showed around 31,000 students enrolled in registered madrasas in Haridwar. However, the verification exercise confirmed only about 19,400 students physically present.
The discrepancy of nearly 11,000 students has triggered concern over possible wrongful claims under welfare schemes, including mid-day meals and minority assistance programmes. Authorities are now examining whether inflated enrollment data was used to access higher government support.
District Magistrate Mayur Dixit confirmed that the verification drive was carried out on instructions from the state leadership. He said several institutions were found to have reported higher student numbers than were verified on the ground.
Recovery and Administrative Action Likely
Authorities have indicated that action will be taken against institutions found responsible for submitting incorrect data. This may include recovery of funds disbursed on the basis of inflated student figures and further administrative penalties where required.
Some institutions have reportedly applied for closure during the course of the investigation. Officials said detailed verification reports will form the basis for further proceedings.
The issue was initially flagged by the state minority welfare department after complaints alleged that some madrasas were exaggerating student strength to claim additional benefits. Following these inputs, the administration ordered a wider verification of enrollment records.
New Minority Education Authority Planned
Officials said similar verification drives are being extended to other districts in the state. The government has also directed all minority educational institutions to undergo fresh registration and validation before continuing operations beyond July 1.
In a parallel policy move, the state government has decided to discontinue the existing madrasa board system from July 1 and replace it with a new Minority Education Authority. Under the revised framework, minority educational institutions will need recognition from both the state education board and the new authority.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has said the reforms are aimed at ensuring transparency and improving the quality of education across communities. Officials said scrutiny of financial records and funding allocations will continue, and further discrepancies may emerge as verification expands to other districts.
