The Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) has expressed strong objection to a circular issued by the Directorate of School Education, Nagaland, directing all government and private schools to observe International Yoga Day on June 21, 2026, and ensure maximum participation of students and staff.
In an open letter to the Principal Director of School Education, AKM stated that the directive fails to take into account the significance of Sunday in Nagaland, which it described as a sacred day observed by the overwhelming majority of Nagas for worship and fellowship.
The student body said that any instruction requiring students, teachers and staff to attend official programs on a Sunday reflects insensitivity towards religious sentiments and local traditions.
AKM also raised concern over the requirement for submission of Action Taken Reports along with GPS-tagged photographs, stating that such conditions effectively place schools under pressure to comply despite the programme being scheduled on a day of religious observance.
Calling for withdrawal of the circular, AKM urged the department to refrain from issuing directives that undermine what it described as the sanctity of Sunday.
The organisation said governance must reflect sensitivity towards the beliefs, traditions and aspirations of the people, adding that the directive reflects a “disconnect” from public sentiments.
AKM further stated that it will continue to stand for the protection of religious freedom, mutual respect and constitutional rights.
“A secular society can thrive only when every community is treated with dignity and when governance remains sensitive to the beliefs and convictions of its people,” the letter stated.
The School Education Department circular had earlier directed DEOs, SDEOs and schools to conduct Yoga sessions and ensure participation of students and staff, along with submission of Action Taken Reports and GPS-tagged photographs.