Kohima, June 19: The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) on Friday issued twin directives concerning the observance of International Day of Yoga in Nagaland, warning the state government and educational institutions against any attempt to make participation compulsory.
The move comes after the Nagaland government deferred the state’s Yoga Day observance from June 21 to June 22.
In an internal notification, the apex student body directed all its federating units and subordinate bodies to closely monitor schools and colleges within their jurisdictions to ensure that no institution compels students, teachers or staff to participate in Yoga Day programmes.
The NSF instructed its units to ascertain whether any official directives had been issued mandating participation and to ensure that school authorities do not resort to pressure, intimidation or undue influence to secure attendance.
While acknowledging that yoga is voluntarily practised by many people for its health benefits, the Federation maintained that the practice also carries historical, philosophical and religious associations that are distinct from the faith traditions of the Naga people.
“The Federation remains vigilant against any attempt to impose participation,” it said, warning that any such move would be viewed seriously and could invite democratic action from the organisation.
In a separate communication addressed to the Commissioner and Secretary of School Education, NSF President Mteisuding and Education Committee Convenor Pithungo Shitio urged the government to ensure that no administrative action or discrimination is taken against institutions, teachers or students who choose not to participate in Yoga Day events.
The Federation further called on the government to issue clear instructions safeguarding the rights and freedoms of individuals and educational institutions.
Reiterating its long-standing position, the NSF stated that while voluntary participation in yoga remains a matter of personal choice, any state-mandated observance in educational institutions raises concerns relating to freedom of conscience and religious liberty in Nagaland’s unique socio-cultural context.
The student body’s intervention is expected to add a fresh dimension to the ongoing debate surrounding the observance of International Day of Yoga in the predominantly Christian state.
