PANACEA FOR EDUCATIONAL PRIMITIVENESS OF MUSLIMS IN INDIA

Education is the backbone of civilised nation it has the potential of transforming an individual, communities, societies and the nation at large. Yet, it is ironical that it is not explored to its fullest potential in India especially among Muslim minorities. The Educational backwardness of the Muslim community in India has been recognized and tinted by a number of officials report such as the Gopal Singh Minority Panel Report; Ranganath Mishra Commission report and Sachhar committee as well as Mehmood-ur-rehman committee. Seeking Knowledge is obligatory on Muslims as per their Religious principles irrespective of gender; but still Muslims have failed to perform their religious obligation in India. The Right to education is secured even by constitutional provisions especially with respect to minorities in India, but despite it Muslims have not benefitted in educational matters. Though other minorities co-exist in India but other than Muslims no other minority is educationally backward as per official reports. The present article reflects the importance of education from religious perspectives; it further puts forth constitutional and statutory provisions ensuring right to education in India. It highlights the educational status of Muslims in India in the light of various reports of committees and annual reports submitted by the officials. The article concludes with strong suggestions to uplift Muslims from educational backwardness.