Naga political and student movements in India

The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) issued a directive to boycott India’s Independence Day on August 15. This protest was prompted by a Ministry of Home Affairs mandate requiring the singing or playing of the song ‘Vande Mataram’ during official functions. The NSF argued that the song’s devotional overtones conflict with the religious beliefs of non-Hindu students and cited Article 371A to protect Naga religious and social practices.

On August 14, various Naga political groups observed the 80th Naga Independence Day through local gatherings across Nagaland, Manipur, Assam, and Myanmar, as well as global hybrid assemblies. The Global Naga Forum held an international assembly titled ‘The Unbroken Line: Territory, Transit, and Truth’, which featured indigenous leaders and UN experts discussing sovereignty and the impact of militarization on indigenous rights.

During these commemorations, the NSCN (I-M) reiterated that negotiations with the Indian government must result in an ‘acceptable and honourable’ agreement that respects the spirit of the 2015 Framework Agreement, maintaining that their unique history, flag, and constitution remain non-negotiable. Simultaneously, the NSF held a programme in Kohima to advocate for Naga unity and urged the Indian government to honor commitments toward a final settlement based on the principle of coexistence.