NSF slams Yoga Day order for hurting faith
The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has expressed grave resentment and unequivocal opposition to a recent circular issued by the Directorate of School Education, Government of Nagaland, which directs educational institutions across the State to observe the 12th International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2026.
The student body has strongly objected to the scheduling of the event, pointing out that June 21 falls on a Sunday. The Federation viewed the directive as a blatant disregard for the religious sentiments and spiritual convictions of the Naga people, emphasising that Sunday occupies a sacred place in the Christian faith and is strictly devoted to worship, prayer, and fellowship.
In a joint statement, NSF President Mteisuding and Education Committee Convenor Pithungo Shitio asserted that institutionalising such activities on a Sunday violates the religious freedom guaranteed under Article 25 of the Indian Constitution. They added that the directive is inconsistent with Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).
“The Federation condemns in the strongest terms the unwarranted directive and calls upon the Directorate of School Education and the Government of Nagaland to immediately withdraw the notification,” the statement read. The NSF cautioned the state Government against any attempt to coerce compliance under the guise of official instructions, warning that authorities would be held solely responsible for any untoward consequences.
