Preparations for Christmas celebration are in full swing in the country and across the world. From markets to offices, there are Christmas decorations everywhere. Meanwhile, an order has come from Rajasthan, in which there is a complete ban on children dressing up like Santa Claus in schools on Christmas day. It has been clearly stated in a government letter that no parent or child should be put under unnecessary pressure to dress up like Santa Claus.
It is wrong to force someone to become Santa Claus.
In fact, in a letter from the office of the District Education Officer (Secondary) in Sriganganagar, it has been said that it is wrong for any school to force children or their parents to dress up like Santa Claus or to participate in activities related to it. If any such complaint is received, action will be taken against the school management as per rules.
The department has no objection to any school organizing Christmas related activities with the consent of parents and children, but in case of forcing or mental pressure, the school management will be responsible. ADEO Ashok Wadhwa said that December 25 is also celebrated as Veer Bal Diwas, which is celebrated in memory of the sacrifice of Sahibzadas. Therefore, schools should maintain balance and sensitivity in their programs and avoid any kind of coercion.
“It is not right to impose any particular tradition.”
Sukhjit Singh Atwal, District President of Indo-Tibet Cooperative Forum, said that for the last few years, some schools are forcing children to dress up as Santa Claus in the name of Christmas Day, due to which parents are angry. He said that Sriganganagar district is a Hindu and Sikh dominated area, hence it is not right to impose any particular tradition.
BJP State Vice-President and former Minister Surendra Pal Singh TT said that if a person joins any religion emotionally and of his own free will, then it is his personal right. But, if someone is forced to preach or join any religion, then it is wrong and should be opposed.