NHRC seeks report from Punjab government over skipped Independence Day celebrations in schools

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken cognizance of a complaint alleging that Independence Day celebrations were not held in government schools located in rural, remote, and border areas of Punjab.

A bench led by Priyank Kanoongo has directed the Punjab government to submit a detailed compliance report within four weeks. The state must provide state-wise, district-wise, and school-wise data regarding the observance of Independence Day on August 15, 2026. This includes details on how many schools hoisted the national flag, sang the national anthem, and had student participation.

The commission has ordered the government to identify specific schools where prescribed activities were not conducted and to explain the reasons for non-compliance. The NHRC is investigating whether children in these specific geographic areas were denied the same educational, cultural, and civic opportunities available to students in other parts of the state.

In addition to the Punjab Chief Secretary, the NHRC has sought information from the Union Ministry of Education and informed the Ministry of Home Affairs for appropriate action.