Dimapur: The Naga Students Federation (NSF) and the Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC) on Thursday opposed the observance of International Yoga Day in schools across Nagaland on June 21, which falls on a Sunday.
NSF Voices Strong Opposition
In a statement, the NSF voiced its strong opposition to the circular issued by the directorate of school education department, directing educational institutions across the state to observe the 12th International Day of Yoga on Sunday. The federation viewed the directive as a blatant disregard for the religious sentiments and spiritual convictions of the Naga people.
Calling the directive “unwarranted,” the federation urged the department and the Nagaland government to immediately withdraw the notification and desist from imposing such programmes upon educational institutions and the Naga people. It cautioned the department against any attempt to enforce or coerce compliance under the guise of official instructions.
The NSF also warned that the imposition will be viewed with utmost seriousness and the concerned authorities will be held solely responsible for any untoward consequences arising thereof.
CNTC Expresses Deep Concern
In an open letter to the principal director of the school education department, the CNTC expressed deep concern over the circular and said the matter has raised concern among the public. While appreciating initiatives aimed at promoting physical health and well-being, the council questioned the wisdom and sensitivity of scheduling such a programme on a Sunday in a predominantly Christian state, where the day is held sacred and devoted to worship and religious observance.
The CNTC emphasized that the issue is not about observance of a programme but about a public authority organising and encouraging participation in an activity on a day that holds profound religious significance for the overwhelming majority of the people of Nagaland.
The council urged the department to immediately revoke the circular and consider rescheduling the programme. It said failure to review the matter may give rise to widespread public dissatisfaction and avoidable tensions, the consequences of which will be neither in the interest of the department nor the people.
