Several student bodies and civil society organisations in Nagaland have come together to oppose the reported directive making the singing of Vande Mataram compulsory in schools and official functions, saying it raises serious concerns about religious freedom and constitutional rights. The protest took shape during a rally organised by the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) in Kohima, where leaders from different groups expressed their views. Addressing the gathering, Jonas Yanthan, President of the Catholic Association of Nagaland (CAN), said the organisation supports the stand taken by the NSF against what he described as a “blanket imposition” of the national song.
Yanthan said the issue had already been discussed during a meeting of the Diocesan Pastoral Council of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kohima on March 13. He stated that while there is no objection to the national anthem Jana Gana Mana, the song Vande Mataram includes devotional references linked to Hindu goddesses. According to him, this creates discomfort for some communities, especially those whose religious beliefs do not align with such imagery.He further said that Nagaland has special constitutional protections that safeguard its social and religious practices. Any policy that appears to interfere with these protections, he added, is a matter of concern and goes against the spirit of a diverse and secular country.
Speaking at the same rally, NSF President Mteisuding said the protest is not against any nation or community but is about protecting the freedom of belief. He said the Naga people value peaceful coexistence and respect all cultures, but participation in any activity should remain a matter of choice.He also referred to international human rights principles, saying that freedom of thought, conscience and religion must be respected. He added that indigenous communities have the right to preserve their traditions without being forced to follow practices that may not align with their beliefs.The NSF said similar protests are being held in different parts of the Naga region, including educational institutions and local units. The federation is also preparing to submit a memorandum to the President of India through the Governor of Nagaland, outlining its concerns.
