Fear of War or a Strategic Move? Pakistan Shuts Down Madrasas in PoK for 10 Days Amid Tensions with India

Following rising tensions with India, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir orders closure of religious institutions, raising questions about looming security threats.

Amid growing fears of military retaliation from India, the government of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) has announced the closure of all religious madrasas in the region for a period of ten days. The decision comes shortly after India allegedly targeted terror camps across the border following the deadly Pahalgam attack, which New Delhi attributes to Pakistan-backed militants.

PoK Government Issues Sudden Order

The sudden directive has sparked widespread speculation, particularly regarding Pakistan's internal security concerns and its anticipation of a possible military response from India. According to official sources, the Religious Affairs Department in PoK issued a notification on April 30, stating that all registered madrasas would remain shut until further notice. While the notification cites "extreme heat" as the reason for the temporary closure, officials have hinted at a more pressing concern—potential Indian military action.

Director Confirms Underlying Security Concerns

Speaking to local media, Hafiz Nazir Ahmed, Director of Religious Affairs in PoK, suggested that fears of Indian strikes played a significant role in the decision. He revealed that security agencies suspect Indian forces might target madrasas under the claim that they are being used as terrorist training camps.

"We are currently dealing with two types of heat—one from the weather, and the other from Modi," Ahmed remarked, referring to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He further explained that the threat of attacks was deliberately omitted from the public notification to prevent panic among residents.

India-Pakistan Tensions Rise After Pahalgam Attack

Tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors have escalated following a recent terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam, a popular destination in Jammu & Kashmir. India has accused Pakistani nationals of being involved in the attack, citing their links with terror outfits operating from across the border.

India's history of surgical strikes and air raids on cross-border terror camps—particularly following the 2016 Uri and 2019 Pulwama attacks—has heightened Pakistan’s concerns of a possible repeat. According to Pakistani intelligence sources, there is credible information suggesting that India may launch limited military operations in response to the latest incident.

A Preventive Measure or War Anxiety?

While Pakistan officially maintains that the madrasa closures are a heat-related precaution, multiple officials and analysts believe the move reflects deeper anxiety about potential conflict. The President’s Office in PoK also labeled the decision as a “preventive measure” meant to protect innocent children from harm.

A total of 445 registered madrasas operate in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, with approximately 26,000 students enrolled. These Islamic religious schools, often run by charitable or religious organizations, provide free or low-cost education, primarily focusing on Islamic teachings as an alternative to formal schooling.

Implications and Reactions

The shutdown of educational institutions—especially religious ones—during a time of heightened geopolitical tension underscores the precarious situation in the region. Analysts note that such decisions often indicate behind-the-scenes developments and intelligence that may not be publicly disclosed.

While Pakistan continues to deny any involvement in the Pahalgam attack, India remains firm on its stance and is reportedly weighing its military options. As the situation develops, international observers are watching closely to see whether these actions remain precautionary or escalate into broader confrontation.