Following a directive by the Education Department of Shajapur district in Madhya Pradesh, various other districts such as Ujjain and Gwalior have issued orders mandating schools to take written approval from parents if they want their children to dress up as Santa Claus or any other character during Christmas celebrations. The directive has drawn heavy criticism on social media.
In an order dated December 14, the District Education Officer (DEO), Shajapur, Vivek Dubey directed all schools to take written permission from the parents of children taking part in Christmas-related events.
“Under no condition should a student be made to participate in the [Christmas] events without parents’ consent. This will prevent any untoward situation or incident,” the order read. It also stated that disciplinary action will be proposed against the institutions if any complaint is received against them.
