Kohima, March 5: The Naga People’s Front (NPF) on March 5 voiced strong resentment over what it described as the “forceful imposition” of the patriotic song Vande Mataram in educational institutions and the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, stating that making its recitation mandatory poses a threat to the religious and cultural identity of Nagaland.
In a press statement issued from its central headquarters in Kohima, the party said such a move would be “alien and unfriendly” to the people of the state and would undermine the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution of India.
The NPF also referred to Article 371A of the Constitution, a special provision that protects the religious and customary practices of the people of Nagaland. According to the party, compulsory recitation of the song is incompatible with the conscience and faith of the state’s Christian-majority population.
The statement further argued that references to Hindu goddesses within Vande Mataram conflict with monotheistic beliefs and the teachings of Christ, making it difficult for many people in the state to accept any attempt to enforce the song’s mandatory recitation.
Urging the Government of India to reconsider the matter, the party called for respect for the country’s secular character and emphasised that no community should be compelled to compromise on its religious beliefs.
The NPF also appealed to like-minded political parties and individuals to unite in safeguarding the state’s distinct identity, culture and faith. It said that greater unity among regional forces would strengthen the collective voice of the people of Nagaland.
Reaffirming resolutions adopted in previous meetings of the party’s Central Office Bearers (COB), Central Executive Council (CEC), and the party’s General Convention, the NPF further called on former members and other regional groups to work together with the party toward what it described as a stronger and brighter future for the state.
