Students’ Body Objects to Mandatory Sequence
Naga Students’ Federation (NSF), Nagaland’s apex students’ organisation, has strongly opposed the Centre’s directive that mandates singing or playing the National Song Vande Mataram before the National Anthem Jana Gana Mana.
In a statement issued on Friday, NSF president Mteisuding Heraang and general secretary Kenilo Kent criticised the order. They said the directive imposes a “rigid sequence of precedence” and overlooks the historical, political and cultural realities of the Naga people. According to them, no authority can enforce cultural or ideological conformity in the Naga homeland while ignoring its distinct identity.
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Concerns Over Cultural and Educational Impact
The federation also raised concerns about guidelines that suggest schools begin the day with community singing of Vande Mataram. It argued that such instructions misuse educational institutions. Schools, the NSF stated, should promote learning and critical thinking rather than symbolic compliance.
Moreover, the students’ body warned against any attempt to make the directive compulsory in Nagaland schools. It urged the Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) to refrain from issuing related circulars without wider consultation. The federation cautioned that unilateral action could trigger unrest among students across the state.
In addition, the NSF directed its federating units and subordinate bodies to remain vigilant. It asked them to prevent enforcement of the order in their respective jurisdictions if authorities attempt to implement it without dialogue.
Centre’s January 28 Order
The controversy stems from a January 28 order issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The directive specifies that when both are performed together, all six stanzas of Vande Mataram, written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, must precede the National Anthem.
While the order aims to standardise ceremonial protocol, it has drawn criticism in Nagaland. The NSF argued that such directives must consider regional sensitivities and constitutional provisions that protect cultural diversity.
Call for Dialogue and Sensitivity
The federation emphasised that Nagaland has a unique historical and political context. Therefore, it urged the Centre to adopt a consultative approach before implementing directives that touch upon identity and cultural expression.
At the same time, the NSF reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and stability. However, it made clear that it would resist any move that it perceives as undermining the state’s distinct identity.
The development adds to the ongoing national debate surrounding the role of Vande Mataram in public institutions. As discussions continue, stakeholders in Nagaland are calling for dialogue, sensitivity and respect for regional sentiments.
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