NSF objects to MHA’s directive on ‘Vande Mataram’

Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has strongly opposed the recent directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) mandating that the Indian National Song “Vande Mataram” be played or sung before the National Anthem “Jana Gana Mana” during designated high-level official functions, including in schools.
In a press release, NSF president Mteisuding Heraang and general secretary Kenilo Kent described the MHA order as an imposition that disregards the historical, political, and cultural realities of the Naga people. While acknowledging the constitutional provisions, including Article 51A(a), the federation emphasized that “no authority can compel cultural or ideological conformity upon the Naga homeland” in ways that overlook the community’s distinct identity.
The federation expressed particular concern over instructions requiring schools to begin each day with the singing of “Vande Mataram”, along with efforts to “popularise” both the National Song and the National Anthem. NSF argued that schools are meant to foster learning and critical thinking, not serve as platforms for enforcing symbolic compliance or ideological uniformity.
In response, the NSF issued a clear warning that no activities mandating the compulsory singing or playing of “Vande Mataram” before “Jana Gana Mana” should be conducted in schools across the Naga homeland. The federation also urged the Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) to refrain from issuing circulars or instructions enforcing the directive, stressing the need to respect local sensitivities and rights and to prevent unrest among students.
Further, NSF cautioned school authorities and administrators against unilateral implementation without proper consultation with stakeholders and understanding of ground realities.
Any such action, the federation stated, would be viewed as a serious affront to the sentiments of the Naga student community.
NSF has called upon all its federating units and subordinate bodies to remain vigilant and ensure that the directive is not carried out. The federation reiterated its appeal to authorities to respect the distinct political and cultural rights of the Naga homeland and avoid measures that could undermine mutual respect and understanding between communities