Kohima, February 20 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has expressed strong opposition to the recent Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) directive that mandates the playing or singing of the National Song ‘Vande Mataram’ before the National Anthem, ‘Jana Gana Mana’, in specific official functions and educational institutions.
In a statement, the NSF asserted that while it acknowledges the constitutional framework of India, including Article 51A(a), no authority can compel “cultural or ideological conformity” upon the Naga homeland in a manner that disregards the region’s unique history and identity. The federation described the directive as an “imposition” that fails to account for the historical, political, and cultural realities of the Naga people.
The students’ body expressed deep concern over instructions requiring that the day’s work in all schools may begin with the community singing of ‘Vande Mataram’, coupled with directions to “popularise” the National Song and Anthem.
“Schools are institutions of learning and critical thought, not instruments for enforcing symbolic compliance,” the NSF stated.
The federation has issued a clear warning that no activities mandating the compulsory singing or playing of ‘Vande Mataram’ before ‘Jana Gana Mana’ shall take place in schools across the Naga homeland. It has impressed upon the Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) to refrain from issuing any circulars, notifications or instructions enforcing this protocol within its jurisdiction.
“The NBSE must uphold the sensitivities and rights of the Naga people and ensure that educational institutions are not subjected to directives that will create unrest or coercion among students,” it asserted.
The NSF further cautioned school authorities and administrators against implementing these guidelines without due consultation with stakeholders. It warned that unilateral action in this regard would be viewed as a “serious affront” to the collective sentiments of the Naga students’ community.
All federating units and subordinate bodies of the NSF have been advised to exercise “strict vigilance” to ensure such activities are not carried out in their respective jurisdictions.
The statement was jointly issued by NSF President Mteisuding Heraang and General Secretary Kenilo Kent, also called upon all responsible authorities to respect the distinct political and cultural rights of the Naga homeland and to refrain from imposing measures that undermine mutual respect and understanding.
