DIMAPUR, JUN 17 (NPN): The School Education department’s directive requiring schools (private and government) to observe International Yoga Day on June 21 has sparked outcries, as this year’s observance falls on a Sunday and also coincides with Father’s Day.
In an open letter addressed to the principal director of School Education, Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) president Lanulemba Longchar and general secretary Aomayang Longkumer expressed strong objection to the department’s directive, stating that it had been issued without considering the significance of Sunday in Nagaland, widely observed for worship and fellowship by the Christian-majority population.
Referring to the circular, AKM stated that requiring schools, students, teachers and staff to attend official programmes on a day of religious observance demonstrated a lack of sensitivity towards the religious sentiments and traditions of the people.
It also raised concern over the directive requiring schools to submit Action Taken Reports along with GPS-tagged photographs, stating that such conditions effectively placed institutions under pressure to comply despite the programme being scheduled on a Sunday.
AKM called upon the directorate to immediately withdraw the circular and refrain from issuing directives that, according to the organisation, undermine the sanctity of Sunday.
Stating that the role of government was not only to administer but also to govern with sensitivity towards the beliefs, traditions and aspirations of the people, AKM said the directive reflected a disconnect from the sentiments of the citizens it was meant to serve.
AKM further maintained that a secular society could thrive only when every community was treated with dignity and when governance remained sensitive to the beliefs and convictions of its people. AKM affirmed that it would continue to stand for the protection of religious freedom, mutual respect and the constitutional rights of all citizens.
Thursday, June 18, 2026