Authorities in Uttarakhand’s Haldwani district sealed seven madrasas on April 13, citing violations of state regulations. Officials stated that these institutions, located in the Muslim-majority Banbhulpura area, were not registered with either the Uttarakhand Madrasa Board or the state education department.

Despite madrasa representatives presenting evidence of a prior inspection, the administration proceeded with the action. Haldwani Magistrate AP Bajpayee confirmed that the institutions had flouted norms, prompting intervention by teams from the district administration, police, and municipality.

This move follows heightened tensions earlier in February, when another madrasa was demolished during an anti-encroachment drive, sparking violent clashes and the deaths of six people. Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami has since ordered strict scrutiny of all madrasas operating without clearance.