Kohima: Multiple organizations in Nagaland have formally opposed a government directive requiring schools to participate in International Day of Yoga activities on June 21. The Ex Parliamentarians Association of Nagaland, the Dimapur Sümi Students Union, and the Zeliang Students Union argue that the state mandate ignores the religious sensitivities of the Christian majority region.
The Ex Parliamentarians Association asserted that enforcing yoga participation is unacceptable because its underlying philosophy conflicts with Christian tenets. In their statement, they argued that while yoga can be a valid form of exercise, it must remain an individual choice rather than a state-imposed requirement. They warned that the directive undermines Article 371(A) of the Constitution of India, which protects the specific faith and cultural practices of the people of Nagaland. The group added that the government has a duty to act in the greater interest of its citizens, stating: "the government has a duty to protect the faith and practices of its citizens and warned that such insensitive decisions raise questions about its commitment to the greater interest of the people."
Both the Dimapur Sümi Students Union and the Zeliang Students Union pointed out that June 21 falls on a Sunday, a day sacred to the Christian community for worship and fellowship. The Zeliang Students Union further noted that the date conflicts with Father’s Day. Both student bodies clarified that their opposition is not directed at health initiatives but at the compulsory nature of the event.
The unions are calling for the state government to revoke or modify the directive to honor religious freedom and constitutional rights. They suggested that authorities choose alternative dates for these programs to avoid interfering with religious observances and to maintain communal harmony across the state.
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