UKHRUL: The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has issued a notification warning against the imposition of the International Day of Yoga on June 22 in educational institutions. The student body has also written to the Chief Secretary, Government of Nagaland, expressing strong opposition to an earlier directive issued by the Directorate of School Education mandating that educational institutions observe the programme.
Also read | NEET Candidates Advised to Reach Upper Shillong Exam Centre Early Amid Union Minister Visit
“The postponement of the event does not address the fundamental concerns raised by the Federation. The issue remains one of compulsion, imposition, and the infringement of the rights and convictions of students, teachers, and educational institutions,” the NSF said.
The NSF has directed all federating units and subordinate bodies to remain vigilant within their respective jurisdictions against any attempt to impose the observance on educational institutions, teachers, students, or staff. Further, it cautioned school administrations, authorities, or individuals against exerting pressure, intimidation, or undue influence on teachers, students, or staff to participate in the event.
“The Federation respects the right of individuals to voluntarily engage in practices such as Yoga, promoted for its physical and mental health benefits, according to one’s personal beliefs and convictions. However, the Federation is equally cognizant of its historical, philosophical, and religious associations rooted in traditions and belief systems that are distinct from the faith professed by the Naga people,” the NSF said.
Also read | ‘How Far Are We United?’: ANSAM Martyrs’ Day Raises Questions on Naga Unity Amid Current Challenges
“The Federation shall view any attempt to impose the programme upon educational institutions with utmost seriousness. Should any authority or institution proceed with coercive or influenced participation of any teacher(s), student(s), or staff member(s), the Federation shall be constrained to initiate appropriate democratic action against such imposition,” it further warned.
Furthermore, the NSF asserted that while participation in Yoga may remain a matter of personal choice, any attempt by the State or its agencies to directly or indirectly impose participation in Yoga-related programmes upon educational institutions, teachers, students, or staff poses a grave threat to freedom of conscience, religious liberty, and the constitutional rights of the people.
Also read | Environmental Awareness Campaign Held in Yeasom, Calls for Conservation of Flora, Fauna
It therefore demanded that the Government of Nagaland issue a clear circular stating that participation in the proposed International Day of Yoga observance on June 22, 2026, shall be strictly voluntary and that no educational institution shall be pressured to organize or facilitate the programme. It also warned against taking administrative action against any institution, student, or staff member who chooses not to participate.
