Civil society and student groups in Nagaland on Saturday voiced strong opposition to a reported directive that would make the singing of Vande Mataram compulsory at official functions and in educational institutions, calling the move an infringement on religious freedom and minority rights. The protest was highlighted at a rally organised by the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) in Kohima.
Jonas Yanthan, president of the Catholic Association of Nagaland (CAN), told the rally the association stands with the NSF in resisting what he called the “blanket imposition” of the national song across institutions. He said the issue was discussed at the Diocesan Pastoral Council of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kohima on March 13, and had caused concern among the Catholic community.
Yanthan stressed that while there is no objection to Jana Gana Mana, India’s national anthem, Vande Mataram contains devotional references associated with Hindu goddesses that some communities may find difficult to accept on religious grounds. He argued that Nagaland, which enjoys constitutional protections for its social and religious practices, cannot accept policies perceived to undermine its cultural and religious autonomy. According to Yanthan, such directives run counter to the secular and pluralistic spirit of the Indian Constitution.
Mteisuding, president of the Naga Students’ Federation, said the protest was not aimed at any community or national symbol but was a defence of freedom of conscience. “We respect diversity and coexistence,” he said, “but compulsory participation in songs with religious imagery could violate personal beliefs.”
Mteisuding also invoked international human rights norms, citing United Nations declarations on freedom of thought, conscience and religion, and argued that indigenous communities have the right to preserve their cultural and religious practices without coercion. The NSF leader said similar demonstrations are being organised across educational institutions and federating units throughout the Naga homeland.
The federation plans to submit a memorandum outlining its concerns to the President of India through the Governor of Nagaland. Rally organisers emphasised the movement will remain peaceful but resolute, asserting that administrative orders cannot alter the identity and beliefs of the Naga people.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/nagaland/story/naga-groups-rally-against-vande-mataram-imposition-cite-religious-freedom-and-constitutional-rights-1360501-2026-03-16?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2026-03-16 14:36:00
