Kohima: The Ao Students Conference (AKM) has formally objected to a directive from the Nagaland School Education department requiring schools to observe International Yoga Day on June 21. Because the date falls on a Sunday, the student body argues the mandate ignores the religious significance of the day for the state's Christian-majority population.
AKM president Lanulemba Longchar and general secretary Aomayang Longkumer issued an open letter to the department expressing their disapproval. They criticized the requirement for schools to submit Action Taken Reports and GPS-tagged photographs of the events. According to the organization, these administrative conditions pressure institutions to participate despite the scheduling conflict.
In their statement, the group noted that the directive showed a disregard for the traditions of local citizens. They argued that "the role of government was not only to administer but also to govern with sensitivity towards the beliefs, traditions and aspirations of the people."
The organization is calling for the immediate withdrawal of the circular. They maintain that the government should avoid issuing mandates that undermine the sanctity of Sunday and stated they will continue to advocate for religious freedom and mutual respect.
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