Nagaland Congress criticises Imna Along over Vande Mataram remarks

DIMAPUR — The controversy over the singing of Vande Mataram in Nagaland continues to widen, with the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) on Sunday criticising Minister Temjen Imna Along for remarks defending the practice in the state Assembly.

In a press release issued on Sunday, the NPCC stated that Nagaland is a unique state with a distinct history and constitutional protections under Article 371(A), which safeguards the religious and social practices, customary laws and traditions of the Naga people.

While acknowledging that Vande Mataram holds historical significance in India’s freedom movement, the party pointed out that several stanzas of the song contain references to Hindu deities and religious imagery.

It stated that attempts to “normalise or justify such imposition” in a state where Christianity forms the spiritual and cultural foundation of society are inappropriate.

Also read: NBCC objects to ‘Vande Mataram’ directive, backs Nagaland MLAs

According to the NPCC, churches have played a central role in shaping the moral, social and political identity of the Naga people and any attempt to dilute this identity must be resisted.

The party further alleged that such statements raise concerns about attempts by the BJP and its ideological affiliates to introduce majoritarian ideology in educational institutions across the country, including Nagaland.

The NPCC urged Along to “stop misleading the people,” respect the sentiments, faith and identity of the people.

Political loyalty to any party must never come at the cost of undermining the cultural and religious foundation of our society, the party stated.

It also called upon citizens to remain alert and united in safeguarding the identity, faith and constitutional rights of the Naga people.