ISLAMABAD (NNI): The long-standing debate over the registration of religious seminaries has been resolved with the signing of the Societies Registration Act 2024 into law by President Asif Zardari.
According to a National Assembly spokesperson, the Societies Registration Act 2024, makes it a law. The step comes as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to regulate and formalize the registration of various entities, including seminaries (Madrasahs). Under the new legislation, all religious seminaries will be registered in accordance with the Societies Act.
The spokesperson for the National Assembly stated that a gazette notification will soon be issued. The law ensures that seminaries’ registration processes align with modern governance practices under the Societies Act framework.
The National Assembly’s Legislation Advisor Muhammad Mushtaq wrote a letter to the Printing Corporation of Pakistan for a gazette notification.
The spokesperson confirmed that the matter was resolved through mutual understanding, ensuring that the implementation of the law takes place with consensus.
Earlier, federal government agreed to all demands presented by Ittehad Tanzeemat Madaaris Deenia (ITMD) regarding Seminary bill.
According to reports, assurances have been given that the registration of Seminaries will be conducted under the Societies Act, addressing a key concern of the organisation.
Furthermore, it has been confirmed that no joint session of Parliament will be convened to discuss this matter.
In line with the proposed amendments under the 26th Constitutional Amendment, a notification is expected to be issued soon, formalising the agreement.
Earlier, Ulema Islam (JUI) President Fazlur Rehman, talking to the media personnel, said the Madrasah bill is being resolved amicably. He said he had not received a message from Imran Khan for a meeting.
“Even if Imran Khan wants to meet, I will make a thoughtful decision,” he said. Fazl said the JUI preferred institutions to individuals in the matter of the 26th Amendment.
Fazl said, “Our grievance is that we were not even given a level playing field in the general elections.” “Some people were used in the elections; we refused to be used.”
The JUI head raised concerns about the surge in terrorism in KP, saying, “The government’s writ is nowhere to be seen in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.” NNI
