NHRC seeks Education Ministry response over Veer Baal Diwas neglect in schools
The Commission issued a notice following allegations that schools prioritise Children's Day celebrations over the historical significance of Veer Baal Diwas.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Union Ministry of Education regarding the alleged lack of recognition for Veer Baal Diwas in schools across the country, according to The Hindu.
The Commission took cognisance of a complaint filed by Sanjeev Newar of the Seva Nyay Utthan Foundation, which claimed that schools give more importance to Children's Day on November 14 than to the events of December 26.
The complaint alleges that students are not being sufficiently taught about the martyrdom and bravery of the four Sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who are commemorated on Veer Baal Diwas.
A bench led by member Priyank Kanoongo has asked the Secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy to clarify if any official government order or circular exists that designates November 14 as Children's Day.
If such a directive is in place, the Ministry must provide a copy and relevant details to the Commission.
The NHRC also requested information on whether schools conduct specific awareness programmes on December 26 to teach students about the sacrifice of the Sahibzadas.
The Commission stated that educational institutions should help students learn about India's heritage and chapters of history involving courage and resistance to injustice.
The Ministry of Education has been directed to submit a detailed Action Taken Report within 14 days.