Naga Students’ Federation to march against compulsory Vande Mataram

The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has announced a peaceful demonstration and solidarity march toward the Nagaland Legislative Assembly on September 1. The protest opposes the compulsory singing, recital, or playing of Vande Mataram during government programs and official functions in the state.

In a representation to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, the NSF requested that the state government adopt a resolution against the imposition of the song. The Federation argued that the devotional and religious imagery associated with Vande Mataram may conflict with the religious beliefs and consciences of citizens in non-Hindu communities. They emphasized that while they respect the National Flag and National Anthem, participation in activities that conflict with sincerely held religious beliefs should not be mandatory.

The NSF also called for the Nagaland Legislative Assembly to table the report from a previously constituted Select Committee regarding this issue. The group cited concerns stemming from a Ministry of Home Affairs notification dated January 28, 2026, and noted that Naga students have already expressed opposition through peaceful non-participation in certain official events, including Independence Day celebrations.