Naga Students' Federation Protests Against Mandatory Vande Mataram Singing
Protests Continue in Kohima
File image of students demonstrating against compulsory singing of Vande Mataram in Kohima. (AT Photo)
Kohima, Sept 3: The demonstration by the Naga Students' Federation (NSF) against the mandatory singing of Vande Mataram outside the assembly has entered its second day, coinciding with discussions in the House during Zero Hour.
During the protest, NSF members performed hymns including When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder, Onward, Christian Soldiers, and I Have Decided to Follow Jesus to voice their dissent against the central government's directive.
NPF MLA Achumbemo Kikon, a former president of the NSF, raised the issue in the assembly, emphasizing that the protest reflects a broader concern for the entire state rather than just specific constituencies.
Kikon noted that Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio's government has acknowledged the sentiments expressed by various legislators, tribal organizations, and civil society groups, including the NSF.
He mentioned that a directive from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, issued on January 28, mandated the compulsory singing of Vande Mataram during the arrival of significant VVIPs at national events, including the governor's arrival at the assembly.
The matter has been referred to a committee tasked with assessing the applicability of parliamentary laws in Nagaland, particularly in light of Article 371A of the Constitution.
This committee, led by Parliamentary Affairs Minister K G Kenye, is currently reviewing the situation and is expected to present its findings during the ongoing session.
Kikon pointed out that the recent enactment of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Act, 2026, has prompted a reevaluation of the legal implications surrounding this issue.
He urged the NSF to cease their protests, assuring them that their concerns would be addressed through the appropriate channels. "I appeal to the NSF, as a former president, to kindly end their agitation," he stated.
Kenye characterized the issue as "very contentious" and "hypersensitive," especially regarding Article 371A and related constitutional provisions.
He explained that the committee had convened twice in May and June and was prepared to submit its report. However, the recent presidential assent to the Bill has altered the legal landscape.
"What was previously an executive order is now a law enacted by Parliament," Kenye remarked.
The committee is waiting for the legislation to be published in the Gazette of India before further examining its provisions and submitting its report to the assembly.
Despite the government's request and the committee's ongoing review, the NSF has declared that it will persist with its protests until the Nagaland assembly passes a resolution against the mandatory singing of Vande Mataram.
S Supongmeren Jamir, Nagaland's sole Lok Sabha member, visited the protest site to show his support for the demonstrators, assuring them that he would raise the issue with the central government.