Kohima, September 11 (MExN): Several Naga organizations have strongly opposed the ‘GauDhwaj Yatra’ scheduled for September 28 in Kohima. The rally, organized to advocate for a nationwide ban on cow slaughter, has been criticized for threatening the region's cultural and social harmony.
The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has condemned the proposed Yatra, stating that it is an affront to the social and cultural fabric of the Naga people. According to the NSF, the event challenges the constitutional rights guaranteed under Article 371A, which protects the customs and religious practices of the Naga people. The NSF emphasized that the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) and the state government have decided not to enforce the “Ban on Cow Slaughter Act 2019,” reflecting the unique provisions that safeguard Naga customs. Any attempt to impose laws contrary to these provisions is deemed unacceptable by the NSF, which warned that such actions could disrupt the region’s peaceful coexistence.
The All Sumi Students' Union (SKK) has also issued a strong condemnation, arguing that the Yatra undermines the secular principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution. The SKK stressed that Nagaland’s dietary habits are a fundamental part of its cultural identity and should not be subjected to external impositions. They urged the state government to prevent any actions that might infringe upon the rights of the Naga people and to uphold democratic values. The SKK called on the organizers of the Yatra to respect India’s diversity and inclusivity to avoid community discord.
Similarly, the Sümi Hoho has expressed firm opposition to the Yatra, citing concerns over the impact on Nagaland’s dietary traditions and constitutional rights. The Sümi Hoho highlighted that Article 371A ensures that central legislation, such as a national ban on cow slaughter, cannot be enforced in Nagaland without the state legislature’s approval. They noted that beef consumption is deeply ingrained in Naga culture and plays a significant role in communal gatherings. The Sümi Hoho urged the state government to intervene and prevent any activities that could undermine the protections guaranteed by Article 371A, emphasizing the need for mutual respect for different cultural practices across India.
The BJP Phek District has joined the opposition, criticizing the Yatra for interfering with Naga customs and dietary choices. They argued that the proposal is disrespectful to Naga cultural practices and likened the proposed restrictions to infringing on personal freedoms. The BJP Phek District called on the state government to resist the Yatra and protect Nagaland’s unique cultural identity, emphasizing the importance of preserving peaceful coexistence among various communities.
The NSCN/GPRN (Khango) has also expressed strong disapproval, stating that the Yatra infringes on individual freedoms and the right to choose dietary practices. They emphasized that Nagaland’s customs and traditions, which are predominantly Christian and culturally distinct, should not be governed by laws imposed from outside. The NSCN/GPRN (Khango) warned that implementing such a law would harm the Naga community’s survival and pledged to resist any attempts to enforce it.
