Kohima, Aug 31: The influential Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) called for a demonstration and march to the state assembly here on Tuesday to protest the Centre’s directive to compulsory singing of Vande Mataram at government programmes and official functions.
The NSF claimed that the complete version of the National Song was not in keeping with the country’s secular principles, arguing that its devotional and religious imagery conflicts with the conscience of those belonging to non-Hindu communities.
The NSF, in a statement, said that its members would hold a demonstration at Naga Solidarity Park, and then march towards the Nagaland Assembly before the commencement of the monsoon session.
In a representation submitted to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio during the day, the NSF demanded that the assembly adopt a resolution opposing the compulsory singing, recital or imposition of Vande Mataram in the Christian-majority state.
The Federation said its objection was not to the National Flag, National Anthem or other recognised national symbols, but specifically to compulsory participation in Vande Mataram, citing concerns over its religious imagery and its implications for the conscience and faith of Naga citizens belonging to non-Hindu communities.
The NSF maintained that, as India is a secular democratic republic, national unity and patriotism must be promoted in a manner that respects freedom of conscience and religious beliefs.
It also invoked Article 371A of the Constitution, which provides safeguards for Nagaland, and said any policy or directive affecting the religious and social practices of the Nagas must be examined in the light of these protections.
The Federation claimed that Naga students had already expressed opposition through peaceful non-participation in official programmes, including at Nagaland University during its convocation attended by the Vice-President of India and the Governor of Nagaland, as well as during Independence Day celebrations.
The NSF has also urged the state government to ensure that the report of the Select Committee constituted by the Nagaland Assembly to examine the Vande Mataram issue is tabled before the House without further delay.
“If the Committee has already submitted its report, the Federation respectfully urges your Good Office to ensure that the same is formally laid and tabled before the House without further delay,” the representation said.
The student body has sought a substantive discussion on the issue in the Assembly and urged the House to adopt a resolution rejecting any compulsory singing or recital of Vande Mataram against an individual’s conscience, faith or religious beliefs.
It further demanded that no student, employee, public servant or citizen face any adverse consequence for peacefully exercising the right of conscience. (PTI)
