Renewed Ban on Women's Entry at Darul Uloom Deoband Sparks Controversy

Darul Uloom Deoband has re-imposed its ban on the entry of women onto its campus, citing violations of its social media guidelines that allegedly damaged the institution's image.

Officials confirmed on Thursday that the ban is communicated via a notice posted at the main entrance, effective for the last two days.

The seminary management stated that recent instances of women taking and sharing videos on social media violated existing bans on photography and videography. This action not only breached customary norms but also damaged the seminary's reputation, prompting a total ban on female visitors, according to the notice.

The institution had relaxed a similar restriction imposed on May 17, 2024, with conditions that were subsequently disregarded, leading to the decision to reinforce the prohibition.

Maulana Mufti Rehan Qasmi, the acting vice-chancellor, commented, "Women were previously allowed under certain conditions, but the trend of uploading videos resumed, necessitating the reinstatement of the ban."

The directive, which has disappointed many female visitors eager to explore the seminary's historic architecture, also prohibits tobacco use, spitting, and inappropriate interaction with the grounds. All visitors must vacate the site by sunset.

(With inputs from agencies.)