Kohima: The Naga Students Federation wants a formal state resolution to stop mandatory Vande Mataram recitals at government functions. NSF president Mteisuding and general secretary Kenilo Kent sent a letter to the chief minister on August 31. The group insists Nagas respect the National Flag and Anthem, but they draw a hard line at this specific song. They argue the song contains religious imagery that clashes with non-Hindu beliefs.
India is a secular democracy. The Constitution protects freedom of conscience. The federation claims national unity should never come at the cost of religious liberty or personal dignity. They demand that no citizen face fallout for skipping these recitals. Students already signaled their stance by staying quiet during events like the Nagaland University convocation and recent Independence Day ceremonies.
Article 371A gives Nagaland specific protections for social and religious practices. The group says the government must respect these constitutional safeguards. The NSF is pushing for the NLA select committee report on the matter to reach the floor immediately. "No person should be compelled, directly or indirectly, to participate in any activity that conflicts with sincerely held religious beliefs," the federation stated.
They expect the state to defend Naga identity against unwanted impositions. The leadership hopes for a clear signal that religious freedom remains a priority for the government. They want a guarantee that no student or employee will face punishment for their refusal to sing.
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