Kohima, February 20, 2026: The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has voiced strong opposition to recent instructions issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) concerning the singing or playing of Vande Mataram in schools and official functions, stating that such directives fail to adequately consider the historical, political, and cultural realities of the Naga people.
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In a press statement issued on February 20, the apex student body expressed concern over what it described as an attempt to mandate the observance and sequence of the National Song alongside the National Anthem in educational institutions. The Federation argued that any directive perceived as compulsory in nature could raise sensitive issues in Nagaland, given the state's unique historical and political context.
According to the NSF, while it acknowledges the constitutional framework under which educational institutions operate, it believes that policies affecting cultural and symbolic practices must take into account the distinct identity and historical experiences of different communities. The organisation maintained that no authority should seek to impose cultural or ideological conformity in a manner that overlooks the aspirations, sentiments, and identity of the Naga people.
The Federation stated that Nagaland occupies a unique place in the country's political landscape and that decisions relating to matters of identity and cultural expression require careful consideration and consultation. It argued that directives issued without adequate engagement with local stakeholders risk creating misunderstanding and unnecessary tensions.
Expressing particular concern over reports that schools may be instructed to play or sing Vande Mataram before the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana, the NSF warned educational institutions across Nagaland against implementing any guidelines that make such practices compulsory. The student body asserted that schools should exercise caution and avoid taking steps that could be interpreted as enforcing cultural observances without broad-based consensus.
The Federation also appealed to the Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) not to issue any circulars, notifications, or directives that would enforce the mandatory observance of Vande Mataram in schools under its jurisdiction. It urged the Board to remain sensitive to the concerns and sentiments expressed by students, parents, and community stakeholders across the state.
In its statement, the NSF cautioned school authorities and government agencies against the unilateral implementation of such guidelines without prior consultation. The organisation warned that any attempt to impose directives perceived as insensitive to local realities could lead to discontent among students and create avoidable unrest within educational institutions.
The Federation further emphasised that educational environments should remain spaces for learning, mutual respect, and understanding rather than becoming arenas for contentious debates over identity and cultural practices. It stressed the importance of maintaining harmony within schools and ensuring that policies are implemented in a manner that respects the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of students.
Calling for greater sensitivity and dialogue, the NSF urged authorities to engage with stakeholders before introducing measures that may have social or cultural implications. The organisation reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the interests, rights, and identity of Naga students while promoting peaceful and constructive engagement on issues affecting the community.
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The student body also reaffirmed its position that the distinct political and cultural rights of the Naga people must be respected and acknowledged in all policy decisions affecting the state. It stated that mutual respect and understanding between institutions and communities are essential for maintaining social harmony and ensuring that educational policies are implemented effectively.
The NSF concluded by urging responsible authorities to avoid actions that could be viewed as disregarding local sentiments and instead adopt a consultative approach when dealing with sensitive matters. The Federation maintained that dialogue and respect for diversity remain the most effective means of addressing concerns and preserving harmony in Nagaland's educational institutions and wider society.
