The education department in Rajasthan's Sriganganagar district has taken a firm stance against private schools forcing students to participate in Christmas celebrations against their will. In a significant order, officials have warned schools against compelling children to dress up as Santa Claus, stating that such coercion will invite strict action.
Official Order Warns Against Coercion
Additional District Education Officer Ashok Wadhwa issued the directive on December 22. The order explicitly states that schools must not put any unnecessary pressure on students or their parents to take part in festive activities like wearing Santa Claus costumes. The department made it clear that if any complaint is filed regarding forced participation, the concerned school management will be held responsible and action will be taken under the relevant rules.
The official communication stressed that there is no objection to organizing Christmas-related activities if they are conducted with the proper consent of both parents and children. However, the line is drawn at compulsion. "Action will be taken under rules if any school is found forcing students," the order categorically stated.
Complaint and Cultural Sensitivity Cited
The directive was prompted by a representation from the Bharat-Tibet Sahyog Manch to the district education authorities. The organization alleged that in recent years, some schools have been making it mandatory for children to dress as Santa Claus, leading to resentment among many parents.
The group highlighted that Sriganganagar is predominantly a Hindu-Sikh majority area and argued that no particular religious or cultural tradition should be imposed on students. This complaint brought the issue to the forefront, leading to the district administration's intervention to ensure cultural sensitivity and voluntary participation.
Balancing Celebrations with Veer Bal Diwas
Officer Ashok Wadhwa also pointed out an important historical significance of the date. December 25 is also observed as 'Veer Bal Diwas', a day to commemorate the supreme sacrifice of the Sahibzadas, the young sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
In light of this, the education department advised schools to maintain sensitivity and balance in their December programming. The order emphasizes that school events should be conducted without any form of coercion, respecting both the festive spirit of Christmas and the solemnity of Veer Bal Diwas. This move aims to foster an inclusive environment where celebrations are optional and respectful of India's diverse cultural fabric.
The district's proactive step sets a precedent for how educational institutions should handle festive celebrations, prioritizing student and parent consent over enforced tradition.
