India, March 26 -- Mahmood, a daily wager from Sikroda in Bhagwanpur block of Haridwar, says he is deeply worried about the future of his two children, Afsha and Afvan. They study at Madrasa Islamia Arbia Iya Ul-Uloom, which was sealed by the Haridwar administration on March 22 as part of a statewide crackdown on unregistered madrasas.

"I don't know if they will be able to continue their education after the Ramzan holidays," Mahmood said. "I can't afford private schools, and the madrasa's proximity ensured their safety. Now, I am at a loss about what to do."

Mubasshir Husain, a trustee of the 11-member trust that runs the madrasa, said, "Around 400 children study here, most of them from nearby Sikroda. Their families are poor and rely o...