Nagaland tribal hohos join chorus against ‘Vande Mataram’ directive

DIMAPUR — The Nagaland Tribal Hohos Coordination Committee (NTHCC) has opposed the directive of the Ministry of Home Affairs mandating the singing of Vande Mataram before the National Anthem at certain official functions and educational institutions, and urged the Nagaland Legislative Assembly to uphold the constitutional safeguards under Article 371A.

In a press statement issued on Friday, the NTHCC—representing Angami Public Organisation, Ao Senden, Chakhesang Public Organisation, Lotha Hoho, Pochury Hoho, Rengma Hoho, Sümi Hoho, and Nagaland Zeliang People’s Organisation—said any attempt to impose such a directive without regard to Nagaland’s unique historical, constitutional and religious context is a matter of concern.

While stating that it respects the national anthem and the constitutional framework of the Republic of India, the committee said the compulsory rendering of Vande Mataram raises concerns in a state where the overwhelming majority professes the Christian faith.

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The NTHCC stated that Nagaland’s relationship with the Indian Union is rooted in historical agreements and constitutional safeguards recognising the distinct identity, faith and traditions of the Naga people. It noted that Article 371A of the Constitution provides special constitutional protection to Nagaland and stipulates that no Act of Parliament shall apply to the state in matters relating to religious or social practices of the Nagas unless the Nagaland Legislative Assembly decides so by resolution.

According to the committee, this safeguard was incorporated to ensure that the religious beliefs, social practices and cultural identity of the Naga people are not overridden by centrally imposed policies.

Stating that the MHA directive touches upon matters protected under Article 371A, the committee called on the Nagaland Legislative Assembly to pass a resolution rejecting the imposition of Vande Mataram and ensure that the song is neither sung nor played within the Assembly.

It further said that the mandatory singing of Vande Mataram, particularly in educational institutions and official platforms, carries significant religious sensitivities in a predominantly Christian state such as Nagaland. In this regard, the committee urged the Government of India to act with greater sensitivity toward the constitutional status, faith and cultural identity of the Naga people, and to refrain from imposing measures inconsistent with India’s pluralistic and federal framework.