HGVS raises concern about State schools indulging in religious activities 

After one and half years of the departure of the BJP government, many schools are still toeing the political saffronisation agenda of its rule.

The Himachal Pradesh Gayan Vigayan Samiti (HGVS) has raised concerns over increasing religious activities and rituals in state-owned schools and complained to the Director of Higher Education on Saturday.

 The complaint, submitted by the state secretary of HGVS Satyvan Pundeer highlights instances of religious functions being organized in schools without prior permission, potentially propagating an unscientific temperament among students.

In a representation submitted to the official, the HGVS expressed dismay over a recent incident where a Havan Yajna (a ritualistic fire ceremony) was conducted in a Senior Secondary School in Sarkaghat, Mandi District. The event, which took place under the supervision of the school principal, reportedly involved participation from residents, teachers, staff, and students.

The HGVS emphasized that schools are public and non-sectarian institutions where education is imparted without bias towards any religion or caste. Such events, organized on school premises, are deemed unconstitutional and a violation of secular principles as enshrined in the Indian Constitution, particularly Articles 28 and 51 (A).

As a scientific and rational organization, the HGVS firmly opposes the imposition of religious activities in public spaces. It underscores the importance of maintaining a neutral educational environment that respects individual beliefs while upholding secular values.

In light of these concerns, the HGVS has called upon the Education Department to take appropriate action against those responsible for organizing such events. Furthermore, it demands a ban on religious activities within school premises to prevent future occurrences.

The committee has urged the department to keep them informed of any actions taken in response to their complaint.

The state secretary of HGVS, Satyawan Pundir, emphasized the need for vigilance in ensuring that schools remain secular spaces for the holistic education of students. Additional instances of similar activities have been reported in the Government Sr Secondary school Jokha (Sundarkand), further underscoring the importance of thorough investigation and action.