A circular issued by Solapur education officer two days back, asking students to observe February 14 to pay gratitude to parents and mark the sacrifice of freedom fighters, has been withdrawn after it triggered a controversy.

Activists alleged that the circular was a move to counter Valentines Day which is celebrated across the world on February 14 and aimed at promoting cultural terrorism being imposed by certain self-proclaimed godmen.

Following the criticism, education officer Tanaji Ghadage withdrew the letter on Thursday.

When we issued the circular, we did not realise that February 14 is a Valentine day. It was mere coincidence, Ghadage said.

The circular claimed that since freedom fighters Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdeo became martyrs on February 14, the day should be observed for their sacrifice by offering floral tributes to their photos. The circular also asked students to pay gratitude to parents by inviting them in the school.

While Valentines Day is celebrated to express love, certain people, including a self-proclaimed godman, has been celebrating it as day of gratitude for parents to oppose what is being celebrated throughout the world. The circular issued by education officer is an attempt to impose the cultural terrorism being spread by these godmen, said Kishor Darak, an activist working in the education field.

Activists also pointed out that Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdeo became martyrs on March 23, while the circular twisted history by claiming that they were hanged to death on February 14.

Read more:

Circular asking students to pay respects to freedom fighters, parents on Feb 14, withdrawn - Hindustan Times