Framing Madrasas in Indian Media: A Content Analysis of Headline Patterns from 2023–2025 Unveiling Predominant Negative Frames and Emerging Reform Narratives

सार

This study examines the framing of madrasas, Islamic educational institutions, in 1,499 Indian news headlines from 2023 to 2025, addressing the critical role of media in shaping public perceptions of minority education. Amid rising socio-political scrutiny, including demolition drives and reform debates, the research investigates how headlines portray madrasas, often misunderstood as solely religious entities. Employing content analysis, the study categorizes headlines as positive, negative, or neutral and analyzes trends by source, region, and theme. Findings reveal a stark imbalance: 75% of headlines frame madrasas negatively, emphasizing demolitions (30%) and crimes (25%), while only 20% are neutral (e.g., exam results) and 5% positive (e.g., reforms like Kannada training). Regional Hindi outlets, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, amplify sensationalism, with 83% negative framing. The 2024 peak in negative coverage aligns with events like the Haldwani demolition violence. Drawing on framing theory, the study highlights how negative dominance risks fueling Islamophobia and supporting restrictive policies, while rare positive stories suggest potential for balanced narratives. These findings contribute to media studies and minority rights discourse, urging ethical journalism and evidence-based policies to recognize madrasas’ educational value. Recommendations include diversifying media frames, supporting inclusive reforms, and pursuing full-article analyses to deepen insights. As India navigates communal tensions in 2025, this research underscores the need for nuanced portrayals to foster social cohesion and equitable education.