Postponing Yoga Day in schools not the answer: NSF

Kohima, June 20 (MExN): The Naga Students' Federation (NSF) has reiterated its opposition to the proposed observance of the International Day of Yoga in educational institutions, stating that postponing the programme from June 21 to June 22 does not address its concerns over what it termed the compulsory nature of the directive.

In a representation submitted to the Chief Secretary, Government of Nagaland, the federation said it had already placed on record its opposition to the earlier directive issued by the Directorate of School Education mandating educational institutions to observe the programme.

“The issue remains one of compulsion, imposition and the infringement of the rights and convictions of students, teachers and educational institutions,” the NSF stated.

While acknowledging that individuals have the right to voluntarily practise yoga for its physical and mental health benefits, the Federation maintained that “Yoga is not merely a physical exercise but has historical, philosophical and religious associations rooted in traditions and beliefs that are distinct from the faith professed by the Naga people.”

It argued that although participation in yoga should 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” constitutes “a grave threat to freedom of conscience, religious liberty and the constitutional rights of the people.”

The NSF called on the State Government to immediately issue a clear circular stating that participation in the International Day of Yoga observance on June 22 would be “strictly voluntary.” It further demanded that no educational institution be compelled or pressured to organise, host or facilitate the programme, and that no teacher, student or school staff be directed, coerced or compelled to participate.

The federation also sought assurance that “no administrative action or form of discrimination shall be taken against any institution, teacher or student who chooses not to participate.”

Warning of possible action, the NSF stated that “any attempt to impose the programme upon educational institutions, students or teachers shall be viewed with utmost seriousness.”

It further cautioned that should it receive reports of “coercion, intimidation, pressure or compulsory participation” being imposed on institutions, students or teachers, the Federation would be “constrained to initiate appropriate and stern democratic action against the same.”

The federation said it expects the Government to issue the necessary clarification at the earliest and ensure that the rights and freedoms of all concerned are fully respected.

The representation was signed by NSF President Mteisuding and NSF Editor and Education Committee Convenor Pithungo Shitio.