Hindu group warns Christian schools against Xmas celebrations

ALIGARH: The Hindu Jagran Manch (HJM) has launched a ‘cultural attack’ on Christian schools, warning them not to celebrate Christmas.

“These schools are pushing Hindu children towards Christianity by forcing them to celebrate Christmas. The kids are forced to bring toys and other items on the pretext of Christmas and in this way they are psychologically pushed towards Christianity,” HJM city president Sonu Savita said.

The organisation has sent letters to the schools, asking them ‘not to organise Christmas celebrations’ and urged Hindu children ‘to desist from celebrating the festival. HJM said if schools fail to follow their demand, then Christmas celebrations on the campuses will be opposed’.

Meanwhile, schools have requested the district and police administration to make adequate security arrangements for them on Christmas day.

HJM state secretary Sanju Bajaj said, “If any Hindu school organises Christmas celebrations then that will be treated as an institution propagating Christianity and HJM will oppose them.”

Vandana Sharma, principal, SPS International Convent School, said: “We have composite culture in our school. We celebrate Christmas just like Holi, Diwali and Eid. Opposition to Christmas is very unfortunate.”

Zakia Hussain, principal, of Jesus Public School run by Christians, said, “Associating Christmas with a religion is unfortunate. Those who are associating it with Christian mentality are those who are against composite culture in the country. Linking it with conversion is also unfortunate.”