Shillong: North Shillong MLA Adelbert Nongrum is pressuring Assembly Speaker Thomas Sangma to reverse a decision blocking his resolution against mandatory singing of the full Vande Mataram. Nongrum submitted the motion under Rule 115 for the upcoming Autumn Session. He wants the House to vote on the measure.
The proposed text states: “This House do resolve to object to mandatory singing of Vande Mataram beyond 2 (two) stanzas.”
Speaker Sangma blocked the move via a letter dated August 18 from Deputy Secretary Raja Kharpuri. The Assembly cited Rule 117(g), arguing the issue falls outside state jurisdiction. They also pointed to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Act, 2026, which they claim mandates all six stanzas. Nongrum rejects both claims. He argues that the state has a duty to protect the religious freedom of its Christian-majority population under Article 25 of the Constitution.
Nongrum noted that the Assembly has previously handled federal matters like the Inner Line Permit and the Eighth Schedule. He also pointed out that a resolution against uranium mining is set for the upcoming session, despite atomic energy being a federal subject. The MLA insists the 2026 law does not force citizens to sing all six stanzas. He claims the first two stanzas have served as the national song since 1950. Nongrum wrote to the Speaker: “I once again request you to kindly admit the resolution submitted to be moved by me under Rule 115 during the upcoming Autumn Session 2026, and accord the powers and privileges due to me under Article 194 of the Constitution.”
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