Did all Punjab government schools observe Independence Day? NHRC seeks report

On August 15, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India sought comprehensive reports from the Punjab chief secretary and the secretary of the School Education and Literacy Department. The complaints alleged that Punjab's government schools, especially in rural, remote, and border areas, did not properly observe Independence Day.

The NHRC has asked the chief secretary to provide state-wise and district-wise details of schools where celebrations took place or did not occur, along with documentary evidence and explanations. The School Education and Literacy Department is also required to identify districts and schools where I-Day activities were not conducted, and furnish the reasons for non-compliance.

The Commission cited Section 29 (2) of the Right to Education Act, emphasizing the importance of aligning school curriculum with values from the Indian Constitution, and highlighted the need to observe national festivals and inculcate patriotism among students. Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains denied the allegations, stating that every district headquarters, municipal council, corporation, and tehsil in Punjab celebrated Independence Day, and that some schools may have celebrated on August 14.