Kohima: Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton says singing Vande Mataram is not mandatory. The national song sparked backlash in Christian-majority states including Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Mizoram. The Union government previously ordered the song be performed at school assemblies and government functions. Local church groups, civil society, and the NPF party voiced sharp opposition. They argue the song contains Hindu devotional themes. They also cite constitutional protections under Article 371 (A).
Patton cleared the air at the Dimapur airport on August 21. He returned from a trip to New Delhi. The state assembly will likely address the issue during the upcoming Monsoon session. Patton noted that personal conscience guides the choice to sing or stay silent. He stated, "No, we cannot say that we will enforce it. Rather, it is entirely up to the individuals. Nobody is being forced to sing, and nobody will be asked to sing. Conversely, nobody can stop anyone from singing either."
Earlier, on August 2, Patton and three Wokha legislators met with Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh. The officials discussed pressing administrative matters. Meanwhile, tension grows along the border. Assam authorities issued eviction notices to 59 families at Number 2 Negheribil in Merapani. This location sits inside the Disputed Area Belt between the Golaghat and Wokha districts.
Border Magistrates from both states are currently running verification checks. Results remain pending. Patton claims authorities cannot yet confirm if the residents are illegal immigrants or Nagas. The Lotha Lower Range Public Organisation wants the Nagaland government to step in now. The group calls the Assam notice a unilateral act. They insist the land belongs under the jurisdiction of Mekirang and Longayim villages in Nagaland.
Comments