The Role of Madrassas in Sectarian Violence: An Empirical Study of Karachi

Abstract

The presence of Madrassas in Pakistan is generally considered a breeding ground for terrorism; therefore, the study is aimed to empirically analyze the role of Madrassas in religious radicalization that leads to sectarian violence. In this concern, the devised research design of the study was quantitative. The quantitative data was accumulated from 599 respondents belonging to the Madrassas of Karachi. The research technique incorporated was statistical testing through SPSS. In light of quantitative assessment, it was found that educational content taught in Madrassas, teaching techniques, students’ behaviors, or sectarian identity was associated with sectarian violence, and the radical views regarding Islam in Madrassas were found to be associated with sectarian violence specifically regarding Islamist militancy. Thence, this study has crucial implications in debunking the reality that Madrassas are heavily contributing to sectarian violence with their radical religious views of Islam.