Mohd. Hanif Quareshi v. State of Bihar (1958) – Rights of Religious Minorities to Establish Educational Institutions

The Mohd. Hanif Quareshi case is a pioneering judgment that fundamentally shaped minority rights in India, particularly the right of religious and linguistic minorities to establish and administer educational institutions. At the heart of the dispute was a challenge to the Bihar government’s attempt to regulate minority-run madrasas under general education laws. The petitioners argued that such regulation infringed on their constitutional rights under Article 30, which guarantees minorities the freedom to preserve their culture and language through educational institutions.

The Supreme Court held that the right to establish and administer educational institutions is an essential part of minority rights, designed to protect the identity and autonomy of minority communities. However, the court also acknowledged the state’s legitimate interest in ensuring minimum standards of education, to prevent substandard schooling and protect the interests of children.

This judgment created an important balance: minorities can run institutions according to their religious and cultural ethos, but they must also meet reasonable educational standards. It safeguards the pluralistic fabric of India by legally protecting minorities from excessive state interference, while encouraging a baseline of educational quality.

This case remains a touchstone in minority rights jurisprudence and has influenced subsequent laws and policies on minority education. It highlights the constitutional commitment to diversity, pluralism, and social justice in India’s educational landscape.

At Mullick & Co. Advocates, we recognize the importance of this judgment in preserving India’s multicultural identity. Our legal team provides specialized advice to minority educational institutions on navigating regulatory frameworks while safeguarding their constitutional rights. We help our clients ensure compliance with educational standards without compromising their autonomy, fostering growth rooted in constitutional protections.