Kohima, March 4: The Nagaland Assembly on Tuesday referred the question of singing the national song “Vande Mataram” in the House to a Select Committee after several legislators raised objections to a recent Ministry of Home Affairs directive. Speaker Sharingain Longkumer announced the referral following strong reservations from members, including those of the Naga People’s Front, about a requirement to play or sing “Vande Mataram” before the national anthem during the motion of thanks to the Governor’s address.
The MHA order dated January 28 states that the official six-stanza version of “Vande Mataram” shall be sung at official functions and that, when both the national song and the national anthem are performed together, “Vande Mataram” will precede “Jana Gana Mana.”
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said legislators’ views had been noted and respected. While acknowledging the historical significance of the national song, he stressed that the nation’s strength lies in its diversity, secular values and adherence to constitutional principles. Rio proposed sending the matter to a Select Committee of the House for comprehensive examination, including legal consultation, before the Assembly takes a final decision.
MLA Tseilhoutuo Rhutso opposed making “Vande Mataram” a prelude to the national anthem in Nagaland, citing concerns of religious conscience in a predominantly Christian state. Rhutso affirmed his respect for the Prime Minister and for inclusive governance but said patriotism must remain inclusive and constitutional. He noted that only the first two stanzas of “Vande Mataram,” composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in Anandamath, were adopted as the national song in 1950.
Rhutso also cited a 1986 Supreme Court observation that singing “Vande Mataram” is not compulsory and that compelling it could infringe the freedom of religion under Article 25(1) of the Constitution. He pointed out that Article 371A affords Nagaland constitutional safeguards for religious and customary practices and urged that any directive respect the state’s unique identity. Refusing to sing the song, he said, does not undermine the Constitution or India’s sovereignty and integrity; patriotism, he added, is shown through loyalty, service and respect for constitutional values.
MLA Ar. Jwenga echoed concerns about making the song mandatory in Nagaland, warning of possible constitutional and religious implications. The Select Committee will examine the issue and may seek legal advice before the Assembly reaches a decision. IANS
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2026/03/04/nagaland-assembly-refers-vande-mataram-row-to-panel/
Category: NATIONAL,News Alert,REGIONAL
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Publish Date: 2026-03-04 13:14:00
