Photo Courtesy: nenow
Kohima: The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has launched a boycott against the Governor of Nagaland. The group is ordering all educational institutions and subordinate bodies to stop inviting the Governor or other government officials to events. This move follows a two-day protest in Kohima. Students held a demonstration they called a singing revolution outside the state assembly.
The federation refuses to back down on its opposition to the mandatory playing of Vande Mataram. The NSF claims the lyrics clash with the Christian faith of the Naga people. NSF president Mteisuding stated, "Today, the Naga Students’ Federation outrightly rejects the imposition of Vande Mataram on the Naga people." The group demands the state assembly pass a formal resolution to block the mandate.
The controversy started on March 2, 2026. An instrumental version of the song played during the governor's arrival at the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly. Minister for Power and Parliamentary Affairs K.G. Kenye stated this followed a January 28, 2026, home ministry order. Kenye asked the students to end their protest.
A legislative committee reviewed the matter on March 18, May 18, and June 24. They held their report pending the outcome of the federal Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The NSF said it will wait but will not compromise. They threaten more intense agitation if the assembly does not take a stand.
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