On date 26/06/2025 NSUI Goa undersigned, express our concern regarding Circular No. DE/Acad/Circular/11/472/2024/13-34 dated 24/06/2025, which mandates schools to observe “Samvidhan Hatya Diwas” and engage students in activities related to the Emergency period of 1975-77. While the intent to promote democratic awareness is noted, we urge the withdrawal of this circular for the following reasons, while also defending the historical context of the Emergency:
1. Inappropriate Political Engagement: Schools should remain neutral educational spaces. Involving students in politically sensitive discussions about the Emergency risks exposing them to biased narratives, which may hinder their objective learning and critical thinking.
2. Distraction from Core Education: Activities like essay competitions and exhibitions may shift focus from academic priorities, placing undue burden on students and teachers to address complex historical issues outside the curriculum.
3. Mischaracterization of the Emergency: The Emergency period (1975-77) was a challenging time marked by national security concerns and efforts to maintain stability. It included measures to curb inflation, boost agricultural productivity, and enforce family planning, which some argue were necessary for the nation’s progress. Labeling it solely as a “dark day” oversimplifies its context and may mislead students without a balanced historical perspective.
We demand the withdrawal of this circular to preserve schools as apolitical learning environments and ensure a fair representation of history. We seek your prompt consideration to address these concerns and safeguard students’ educational experience.
Yours Sincerely, Naushad Chowdhari State President, NSUI Goa
