Around 4,000 Madrasas in Uttar Pradesh Under ATS Scrutiny as Probe Intensifies
State government orders faster verification of funding sources, legality, and foreign links of madrasas.
The Uttar Pradesh government has stepped up its investigation into nearly 4,000 madrasas across the state, focusing on their funding sources and legal status. The action is being carried out on the instructions of the Yogi Adityanath-led government, with the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) playing a key role in the probe.
The state’s Minority Welfare Department has issued a letter to all district minority welfare officers, directing them to fully cooperate with the ATS by providing required documents, records, and verification reports. The move has once again caused concern among madrasa administrators, who fear increased scrutiny and possible action.
According to the letter issued by Ankit Kumar Agarwal, Director of the Minority Welfare Department, a decision was taken during a Special Investigation Team (SIT) meeting to share detailed lists of both recognised and unrecognised madrasas with all ATS field units operating in their respective jurisdictions. The verification process includes confirming the existence, operations, and financial activities of these institutions.
District officials have been instructed to collect and verify details of bank transactions linked to madrasas, their institutions, and their management committees. These verification reports must be submitted within two weeks.
The letter also points out that some madrasas reportedly have large buildings, but their management has failed to provide credible information about the sources of income used for construction. Authorities have been directed to thoroughly verify the funding sources for such buildings and submit detailed reports.
In addition, information related to possible foreign funding is to be gathered through local sources, intelligence units, and district-level agencies. Any findings must be shared with the department so that appropriate action can be taken based on the evidence.
Officials have been asked to ensure that all verification points are carefully examined and that reports, along with clear recommendations, are submitted without delay. The letter also stresses that district administrations must extend full cooperation if any ATS field unit contacts them during the investigation.
The communication refers to a high-level meeting held on December 17, 2025, chaired by the Additional Director General of the ATS. During the meeting, it was decided that detailed scrutiny would be conducted into madrasa income sources, particularly foreign funding and construction-related expenses.
The committee further directed that information be collected through local intelligence units and that a comprehensive review be carried out of madrasas’ financial transactions, construction approvals, and administrative structures. Authorities have warned that strict action will be taken if any madrasa is found to have links to illegal or anti-national activities.
