Kohima, Mar 10 (MExN): The Ao Baptist Arogo Mungdang (ABAM) has expressed solidarity with the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) in opposing any attempt to make the singing of Vande Mataram compulsory.
In a statement, ABAM said that while expressions of patriotism and love for the nation are important, matters of faith and conscience must be respected in a democratic society. It noted that the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and belief and any practice that compels individuals or communities to act against their religious convictions should be reconsidered.
The organisation appreciated the NBCC for what it termed a clear and principled stand, saying it reflects responsible leadership and a commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all communities without compromising faith and values. ABAM also commended members of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly for safeguarding constitutional principles and protecting the rights of religious groups in the state.
Meanwhile, the Nagaland Pentecostal Mission (NPM) has also expressed strong support to the stand taken by the Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF) and other Christian organisations opposing the mandatory singing of Vande Mataram before the National Anthem at official government functions and institutions.
The Mission said that while Christians in Nagaland respect the National Anthem, the National Flag and the sovereignty of India, compelling the singing of Vande Mataram raises concerns for many believers due to expressions in the song’s historical and cultural context that are viewed as non-Biblical. It said participation in such expressions becomes a matter of faith and conscience for Christians who believe that worship and reverence belong to God alone.
Clarifying that the stand should not be misunderstood as a lack of patriotism, the Mission said Christians in Nagaland have always been law-abiding citizens who respect the Constitution and contribute to the unity and progress of the nation. However, it emphasised that freedom of religion and freedom of conscience guaranteed under the Constitution must be respected.
The NPM appealed to the government and concerned authorities to exercise sensitivity and ensure that the singing of Vande Mataram is not made compulsory. It also called on all sections of society to uphold mutual respect, religious freedom and peaceful coexistence as essential foundations for unity in a diverse country.
