Naga Students’ Federation calls for Independence Day boycott

The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has directed its subordinate bodies and federating units to boycott India’s Independence Day programmes on August 15. The boycott is a protest against a mandate requiring the playing or singing of the revised national song, ‘Vande Mataram’, during official functions.

The NSF stated that while the Naga people respect the National Flag and National Anthem, the compulsory participation in ‘Vande Mataram’ conflicts with the religious beliefs and consciences of students from non-Hindu communities due to its devotional overtones. The Federation cited India’s status as a secular republic and invoked constitutional safeguards under Article 371A, which protects the religious and social practices of the Nagas.

The directive follows a Ministry of Home Affairs communication from January 2026 regarding the mandatory popularization of the song. The NSF has instructed its units to ensure that no student faces disciplinary action, academic consequences, or intimidation for declining to participate on grounds of conscience.