The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has strongly condemned and opposed the ongoing workshops organized under the aegis of SPIC MACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth) in various educational institutions across Kohima and Dimapur. The NSF stands firm in its belief that such programs, which it claims seek to impose alien cultural and religious practices, have no place in the Naga homeland.
In a statement, the NSF expressed its disapproval, stating, “It is unacceptable that under the guise of ‘enriching formal education,’ external forces are subtly attempting to dilute our indigenous identity and impose a cultural assimilation agenda.” The federation stressed the importance of preserving the Naga people’s rich and distinct cultural heritage and declared, “We will not tolerate any attempt to infringe upon our way of life, traditions, and beliefs. Any effort to introduce religious or cultural elements that do not align with our indigenous ethos is an outright violation of our rights as a people.”
Additionally, the NSF argued that the workshops are a waste of valuable academic time. “With the already limited academic calendar and various challenges faced by students, it is irresponsible to force programs that neither contribute to their academic advancement nor uphold the indigenous ethos of the Naga people,” the statement noted. The federation further expressed concern that these workshops deprive students of meaningful education and their right to a curriculum that prioritizes intellectual and personal growth.
The NSF also took issue with the guidelines imposed for the workshops, which include specific ceremonial practices, mandatory seating arrangements, and symbolic gestures that it views as contrary to Naga customs and beliefs. “The enforced removal of footwear before entering the hall, the requirement for a ministry logo, and the regulated felicitation of artists reflect an imposition of foreign cultural norms upon our educational institutions,” the federation said, arguing that such directives undermine the fundamental principles of cultural respect.
In its call to action, the NSF urged school administrations, students, and parents to remain vigilant against cultural and religious programs that do not align with the Naga heritage. The federation demanded that all SPIC MACAY workshops in Naga institutions be immediately halted, insisting that no such programs should be conducted in the future without prior consultation with relevant Naga stakeholders.
The NSF concluded by reaffirming its commitment to defending the identity, rights, and future of Naga students, warning that it would take “appropriate measures, including democratic protests,” should their demands be ignored.