Students at Nagaland University’s 8th convocation in Lumami boycotted Vande Mataram, protesting a Ministry of Home Affairs directive mandating the song at official events.
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LUMAMI — Students and research scholars of Nagaland University boycotted the rendition of the national song Vande Mataram during the university’s 8th convocation at Lumami on Friday, remaining seated in silent protest amid the ongoing controversy over its mandatory playing at official functions.
The song was played at both the beginning and the conclusion of the ceremony. However, students and scholars stayed seated during its rendition and stood only when the national anthem Jana Gana Mana was played.
The symbolic protest was organised by the Nagaland University Students’ Union (Lumami Campus) following directives from the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF).
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The NSF had opposed the Ministry of Home Affairs directive issued earlier this year mandating the playing or singing of Vande Mataram before the national anthem at official events and educational institutions.
According to the federation, the directive disregards Naga cultural sensitivities, religious beliefs and constitutional protections under Article 371(A).
The Naga People’s Front (NPF) also has criticised the “forceful imposition” of the song in schools and legislative proceedings, while Christian organisations such as the Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF) have raised concerns that parts of the song conflict with Christian beliefs.
The issue also surfaced in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly earlier this week, where members objected to the directive. The House has since referred the matter to a Select Committee to examine its applicability in the state, citing Nagaland’s unique socio-religious context and constitutional safeguards.