Supreme Court Urges Fresh Decision on Maulana Azad Education Foundation

The Supreme Court has suggested the Centre reconstitute the general body to make a fresh decision on dissolving the Maulana Azad Education Foundation. The petition against its dissolution alleges the foundation hasn't been serving its purpose effectively, a claim the Centre disputes.

The Supreme Court has recommended that the Centre reconstitute the general body to reconsider the decision to dissolve the Maulana Azad Education Foundation (MAEF), established in 1989 to promote education among educationally backward minorities.

Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, leading a bench, heard an appeal against the Delhi High Court ruling which upheld the Centre’s decision to dismantle the MAEF due to mostly governmental nominations not reflecting diverse walks of life. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, defended the action, denying any misuse of power.

The bench, suggesting that the general body be reconstituted to revisit the dissolution, scheduled the hearing for August 14. The high court had previously dismissed the petitioners' objections, stating the dissolution decision was well-considered and executed lawfully. Critics argue this move deprives students, particularly girls, of critical educational benefits.