J&K Admin directive for 'Surya Namaskar' on Makar Sankranthi stokes row

An order asking college faculty & students to perform 'Surya Namaskar has drawn sharp criticism from J&K parties. The J&K Admin order directs college heads to organise a virtual 'Surya Namaskar' session on Makar Sankranthi. As per J&K Admin, the directive is a part of 'Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav', a Union Govt initiative marking 75 years of independence. 'Kindly ensure all faculty members and students actively participate', says J&K Admin order. Many Muslims say 'Surya Namaskar' is against basic tenets of their faith. Critics say 'Surya Namaskar' is a form of worship of the sun and India's minorities do not believe that sun is a deity.