The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has expressed deep displeasure and strong condemnation of recent remarks made by BJP legislator Temjen Imna Along regarding the recitation of Vande Mataram in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly.
In a statement released today, the NSF said it is “deeply regrettable” that Eno Temjen Imna Along continues to justify and normalize the imposition of the song in state institutions, despite the Federation’s earlier opposition dated February 20, 2026.
READ | NSF opposes Centre’s directive on mandatory singing or playing of Vande Mataram in schools
The Federation had categorically opposed instructions issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs mandating that Vande Mataram be played or sung before the Indian National Anthem (Jana Gana Mana) during certain official functions and warned against extending such directives to educational institutions.
“Vande Mataram carries strong and undeniable religious connotations rooted in the worship of Hindu deities. Any attempts to enforce or institutionalize its recitation in the Naga homeland directly violates the spirit and safeguards enshrined under Article 371(A),” the NSF statement read. The Federation criticized attempts to portray the song as secular, saying it ignores the concerns of communities whose faith and cultural identity do not align with its religious imagery.
The NSF further accused the legislator of prioritizing political loyalties over the rights and sensitivities of the Naga people. “By advocating for the normalization of Vande Mataram within the Assembly, he risks undoing what generations of Nagas have sacrificed to preserve our identity, faith, and rights,” it said.
The Federation reiterated that the Nagaland Legislative Assembly must remain sensitive to the unique historical and socio-religious context of the Naga people. It also criticized the referral of the matter to a Select Committee, arguing that the imposition of the song undermines protections guaranteed under Article 371(A).
ALSO READ | Vande Mataram row escalates in Nagaland: NJCF joins opposition
The NSF warned against the introduction or playing of Vande Mataram in any administrative or educational institution, including Nagaland University, across the state. Subordinate bodies and federating units were directed to remain vigilant and respond appropriately should any authority attempt to impose the song.
The statement was signed by Mteisuding Heraang, President, and Pithungo Shitio, Editor NSF & Convenor of the Education Committee.
