Don’t celebrate Xmas: Hindu group to Aligarh schools

The Hindu Jagran Manch (HJM) on Monday sent letters to schools where majority of students are Hindus, asking them not to celebrate Christmas.

The school managements are now in a fix whether to go ahead with the celebrations or not. HJM leaders claimed: “We have sent letters to all schools asking them not to organise Christmas celebrations on the campuses. The school managements may treat it as a request or warning.”

Many school teachers said usually people send children to school to be aware about religion and culture apart from learning other subjects so that they become good and responsible citizens. “Schools organise events during Holi, Diwali, Eid and Christmas in which school children take part enthusiastically. But now HJM is making attempts to discontinue this practice, which is not in accordance with Constitutional provisions,” opined some teachers.

HJM city president Sonu Savita, convenor Amit Raja, city secretary Punit Sharma and district vice-president Rajesh Pandit said: “All schools will receive letters for not organising any event on Christmas.” Three days ago, HJM leaders held a meeting where they decided to oppose Christmas celebrations in schools.

Pravin Agarwal, chairman of Public School Development Society, said, “As of now, we have not received any letter but opposition to any festival is unfortunate.”

Anurag Gupta, in-charge, parents association, said: “Children should not be pushed to fanaticism.”