NHRC asks Education Ministry to respond to alleged neglect of Veer Baal Diwas in schools

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Friday sought an explanation from the Union Education Ministry over allegations that schools across the country are giving more emphasis to Children’s Day celebrations on November 14, while not sufficiently emphasizing the historical significance of Veer Baal Diwas, observed on December 26.

A bench of the commission, headed by member Priyank Kanoong, was acting on a complaint filed by Sanjeev Newar of the Seva Nyay Utthan Foundation, which raised concerns about the limited awareness among students of the school about the courage and supreme sacrifice of the four sahibzads of Guru Gobind Singh.

The Commission therefore issued a notice to the Secretary, Ministry of Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education, Government of India, asking whether the Central Government or any competent authority has issued an official notification, order or circular declaring 14 November as Children’s Day. If such a directive exists, the Department has been asked to provide a copy and provide relevant details.

The Ministry was asked to submit a detailed Action Take Report (ATR) within 14 days to address the concerns raised in the complaint.

The NHRC also sought to clarify whether schools are encouraged to conduct special educational and awareness programs on December 26 to commemorate Veer Baal Diwas. Such initiatives, the Commission suggested, should help students understand the historical significance of the four Sahibzadas and their extraordinary courage and sacrifice.

The commission highlighted the wider educational implications of the issue and stressed the need to ensure that children are exposed to important chapters of India’s history and cultural heritage. Educational institutions have been found to play a significant role in developing awareness of values ​​such as bravery, faith, sacrifice and resistance to injustice.

Published – 14 Nov 2026 03:52 IST