JUI-F Raises Concerns Over Delays in Seminary Bill Approval

The Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) recently expressed dissatisfaction with the delay in approving the Societies Registration (Amendment) Act, 2024, aimed at regulating religious seminaries in Pakistan. The proposed amendments include mandatory registration of seminaries, annual reporting of educational activities, and audited financial statements. The delay has drawn criticism from religious and political circles, with JUI-F suggesting bureaucratic resistance behind the holdup.

Tensions Rise Between PPP and JUI-F

The delay has put a strain on relations between the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and the JUI-F, key partners in the current coalition government. Despite the bill being passed by both houses of Parliament, President Asif Ali Zardari has yet to sign it into law, citing unresolved legal and political concerns. JUI-F leaders have publicly called out these delays, stating that such hesitation undermines commitments made to religious communities.

Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari’s Intervention

In an effort to defuse the situation, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, chairman of the PPP, met with JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman. Bilawal assured that the bill would be signed soon, emphasizing its alignment with coalition agreements. Key JUI-F figures, including Senator Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haideri, participated in the meeting, underlining their concerns about bureaucratic interference and its potential consequences.

Key Provisions of the Bill

The amendments aim to formalize the registration of seminaries under local authorities, primarily through deputy commissioners. Each seminary must submit annual activity reports and have its finances audited. The bill explicitly prohibits seminaries from promoting militancy, sectarianism, or hate speech in their curricula or literature, a measure widely seen as crucial for addressing extremism.

Broader Implications

This legislation is part of Pakistan’s broader efforts to regulate unregistered madrassas and curb extremism, a goal supported by international observers and domestic stakeholders. However, political disagreements and procedural delays continue to hinder its implementation.

The JUI-F’s push for swift approval underscores its influence within the coalition government and its commitment to protecting the interests of seminaries while ensuring compliance with new regulations.