The education department in Sriganganagar, Rajasthan, has issued a warning to schools against forcing students to attend school dressed as Santa Claus, stating that strict action will be taken against any institution found violating the directive. According to the order, schools must not compel students to participate in such activities or place undue pressure on parents. “Action will be taken under rules if any school is found forcing students,” the order clearly stated, emphasising that compliance with the instruction is mandatory.
The directive was issued on December 22 by Ashok Wadhwa, Additional District Education Officer, who cautioned schools against imposing unnecessary obligations on students or their families. The order underlined that participation in festive activities should remain voluntary and free from coercion. The education department further clarified that if any student is compelled or if parents are pressurised to ensure their child’s participation, the responsibility will rest solely with the concerned school management. In such cases, disciplinary action will be initiated in accordance with existing rules and regulations. The move follows a representation submitted by the Bharat-Tibet Sahyog Manch to the district education authorities. In its complaint, the organisation alleged that some schools in recent years have compelled children to dress up as Santa Claus during Christmas-related activities, leading to resentment and discomfort among parents. The representation claimed that such practices have caused unease within sections of the parent community, prompting calls for administrative intervention to prevent schools from enforcing participation in activities perceived as unnecessary or insensitive. Officials indicated that the order aims to prevent avoidable disputes and ensure that schools adhere strictly to educational norms without imposing additional social or cultural expectations on students. The department has warned that violations will invite strict action under the applicable rules.
