The Nagaland Legislative Assembly has referred the Vande Mataram issue to a Select Committee after MLAs objected to playing the national song during the budget session.
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KOHIMA — The Nagaland Legislative Assembly on Tuesday referred to a Select Committee the issue of playing the national song, Vande Mataram, during the opening of the budget session, following strong objections from several members who termed it an imposition.
The matter arose after the national song was played before the national anthem at the commencement of the budget session on March 2, in line with a directive issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to states and union territories to perform the national song at government and public functions, and to play it first when both the national anthem and national song are included in events.
Participating in the motion of thanks to the Governor’s address, several MLAs expressed resentment over the playing of Vande Mataram, stating that it was “unfair” for a Christian-majority state like Nagaland. According to the 2011 Census, 87.93% of the state’s population is Christian.
NPF MLA Kuzholuzo Nienu said the act was “absolutely unnecessary” and not fair for a Christian-majority state. RPI (A) MLA Lima Onen Chang stated that his conscience did not permit him to accept it, describing it as against his religion and in violation of fundamental rights.
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NCP MLA Longon said it was “unusual and surprising” to hear the national song before the national anthem and termed it an imposition. He called for invoking Article 371A. MLA Dr. Neisatuo Mero said he was taken aback by the music being played and added that Nagaland, being a Christian and democratic state, should not be subjected to such imposition.
MLA Jwenga Seb said that in a state where the majority are Christians, such imposition would create a conflict of conscience and suggested that “God Bless My Nagaland” be sung during Assembly sessions. NPF MLA Achumbemo Kikon questioned how religion could be imposed across different parts of the country and referred to the legal and religious aspects of the matter.
NPP MLA Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhutso said the MHA directive mandating the national song in the House and in official functions was not acceptable to the people. “Let it be placed on record that refusing to sing/recite Vande Mataram does not disturb neither the Constitution nor the sovereignty and integrity of India. Patriotism is proven by loyalty and service, not by compelled religious song,” he said.
Responding to the discussion, BJP MLA Temjen Imna Along said that even if some feel it is against their religion, the sentiments attached to the national song in other parts of the country should be understood. He added that secularism involves respecting differing views and that citizens must give “best respect” to the national song.
In his concluding remarks, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said the matter would be referred to a Select Committee of the House to examine the applicability of the central directive and whether it is acceptable in the state’s context. He observed that while people respect freedom fighters and the composers of national songs, fundamental rights should not be encroached upon. He added that the issue, in view of Article 371A, is fit to be referred to the Select Committee.