DIMAPUR: Ex Parliamentarians Association of Nagaland (Ex PAN), Dimapur Sümi Students’ Union (DSSU) and Zeliang Students’ Union Nagaland (ZLSU) have voiced strong objections to the government directive instructing schools to observe International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 on June 21.
In a statement, Ex-PAN president, Joshua Sümi and general secretary, Tarie Zeliang said enforcing participation in IDY, particularly among school children, was unacceptable as the philosophy of yoga goes against Christian tenets. While acknowledging yoga as a global practice for physical exercise and mental wellbeing, the association maintained that it must remain an individual choice and cannot be imposed.
It expressed concern that the directive disregards the religious sentiments of the people of Nagaland, a Christian majority state, and undermines the provisions of Article 371(A) of the Constitution of India. Ex PAN stated that the government has a duty to protect the faith and practices of its citizens and warned that such insensitive decisions raise questions about its commitment to the greater interest of the people.
The association urged the state government to revoke the circular with immediate effect and to write to the Government of India conveying the people’s displeasure at the imposition of “alien culture and practices.” It further demanded that the Centre uphold Article 371(A) in letter and spirit.
DSSU: Dimapur Sümi Students’ Union (DSSU) has expressed concern over the directive to observe International Yoga Day on June 21, stating that the date coincides with Sunday worship, which holds sacred significance for the Christian majority population of Nagaland.
In a press release, DSSU president, Kiyeka V Assumi and general secretary, Atono V Swu said Sunday is dedicated to worship, prayer and fellowship, and organizing educational activities on this day may interfere with the religious observances and convictions of students, teachers, parents and the wider Christian community.
While acknowledging the importance of physical fitness, health awareness and cultural diversity, DSSU maintained that Yoga Day celebrations on Sunday could unintentionally affect the sentiments of many Christians.
The Union urged authorities to consider alternative dates or schedules for such programmes in order to respect religious beliefs and traditions. It clarified that its appeal was not against health and wellness activities, but a request for sensitivity towards the religious values and practices of the people.
DSSU expressed hope that the authorities would give due consideration to the concern and take appropriate steps in the interest of communal harmony and respect for religious freedom.
ZLSU: Zeliang Students’ Union Nagaland (ZLSU) has expressed concern over directives issued by the Directorate of School Education instructing educational institutions to observe the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) on June 21.
In a press release, ZLSU said while it respects initiatives promoting health and wellness, the directive overlooks Nagaland’s unique religious and cultural identity. It noted that the date coincides with Sunday worship, a sacred day for Christians, and also with Father’s Day.
The Union clarified that its stand is not against wellness programmes but about safeguarding the constitutional right to freedom of conscience and religion. Citing Article 25 of the Constitution of India, ZLSU maintained that participation in yoga activities must remain voluntary and not compulsory for students, teachers or staff.
It appealed to the State Government and Department of School Education to consider the religious sentiments of the people and make necessary modifications to the directive in the interest of harmony and mutual respect.
ZLSU reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights, identity and sentiments of the student community and the people at large.
Saturday, June 20, 2026