Chhattisgarh Government Circular Directs Schools to Remain Open on December 25

Raipur, Chattisgarh, December 25, 2025: A circular issued by the Chhattisgarh Mantralaya has directed that all government and government-aided schools across the state remain open on December 25, marking the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee as Good Governance Day.

The order, issued by the Directorate of Public Instruction, instructs district education officers to ensure the observance of the day in all schools. As per the circular, schools are required to organise programmes highlighting the life, ideals and contributions of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The activities are to include discussions, speeches, essays, poems and other academic events centred on themes of good governance and public service. The directive further states that reports of the programmes conducted must be submitted to the Directorate.

Following the release of this government circular, a diocesan education director, who is a priest, issued a separate communication to all schools under the diocese, instructing them to remain open on December 25 in compliance with the state government’s order.

The development has caused disappointment among members of the Christian community, as December 25 is observed worldwide as Christmas, a major religious festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. Traditionally, schools affiliated with Christian institutions remain closed on this day to allow students, staff and families to participate in religious services and celebrations.

The diocesan circular reportedly cited the mandatory nature of the government directive, stating that schools were expected to follow official instructions issued by the education department. The communication did not announce any exemption or alternative arrangement for the Christmas holiday.

The original government circular emphasises that no unnecessary pressure should be placed on students and that participation in activities should align with the educational framework laid down by the department. It also warns that responsibility for implementation lies with school managements and district authorities.

The issue has once again drawn attention to the broader debate over the balancing of administrative directives with religious observances, particularly in a diverse and plural society. While the state government has positioned the programme as part of its annual observance of Good Governance Day, the decision to require schools to function on December 25 has raised concerns among sections of the Christian community, who view the date as inseparable from its religious significance.

No clarification or revision to the circular has been announced so far by the Chhattisgarh education authorities.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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