NBCC backs Nagaland MLAs opposing directive to play Vande Mataram before National Anthem, citing religious concerns and constitutional rights.
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DIMAPUR — The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) has joined growing voices in Nagaland opposing the directive to play Vande Mataram before the National Anthem at official functions.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the council appreciated the government of Nagaland for taking up the matter for discussion and noted that a majority of legislators had expressed strong reservations over the move reportedly initiated by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Endorsing the sentiments expressed by the legislators, the NBCC stated that the directive should be viewed in the broader context of what it described as growing challenges to India’s secular framework.
Also read: Nagaland tribal hohos join chorus against ‘Vande Mataram’ directive
It cited issues such as the push for the Uniform Civil Code, alleged saffronisation of education, anti-conversion laws and increasing pressure on religious minorities.
The council also appreciated various church organisations, civil society groups, student bodies and political parties in Nagaland that have raised objections to making the song mandatory before the National Anthem.
Referring to the landmark 1986 judgement in the Bijoe Emmanuel vs State of Kerala, the NBCC pointed out that the Supreme Court of India had ruled that no individual can be compelled to sing patriotic songs if it goes against their religious beliefs.
The council urged believers to remain vigilant and uphold the identity, dignity and constitutional rights of the people.