In a shocking raid conducted in Bahraich’s Payagpur subdivision, officials rescued 40 minor girls, aged between nine and fourteen, who were found locked inside a toilet at an unregistered madrassa operating in a three-storey building. The discovery has triggered an investigation into the legality and safety of the institution.
The operation took place on Wednesday evening after multiple complaints about the madrassa’s functioning and its unrecognized status. When district officials and police personnel attempted to inspect the building, the madrassa’s operator initially resisted entry. During the search, authorities found a toilet on the terrace that had been bolted from outside. With the help of female police staff, the door was opened, and the girls emerged one by one, visibly frightened and largely unable to explain their confinement.
The madrassa, which reportedly housed both boarding and day-scholar students, had no valid registration documents. While the manager produced admission forms for the 40 girls, he failed to present records for teaching staff or clear details about the institution. His daughter claimed it was a coaching centre, not a madrassa. Locals also raised questions about the sudden rise in the operator’s wealth, suggesting possible illicit activity.
After being rescued, the girls’ identities were recorded and they were sent back home. The district administration ordered the madrassa shut down immediately. A report has been sent to the District Magistrate, and the District Minority Welfare Officer has been tasked with probing its operations. Authorities have flagged that 495 such unrecognized madrasas were identified in Bahraich during a 2023 survey — this particular institution had escaped earlier scrutiny.
Law enforcement has not yet registered an FIR, citing absence of formal complaints from parents or administrative authorities. Observers expect legal proceedings to follow, especially given the severity of the situation.
The incident raises alarming concerns about oversight of unregulated educational institutions, child safety, and accountability. As officials pursue further investigation, questions about how such confinement could occur—and remain undetected—are drawing sharp public scrutiny.