The Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) has expressed deep concern over recent remarks made by Minister Imna Along in the Nagaland Assembly, who reportedly attempted to justify compulsory respect for the singing of Vande Mataram before the people of Nagaland.
In a statement, NPCC highlighted Nagaland’s unique history, identity, and constitutional protection under Article 371(A), which safeguards the religious and social practices, customary laws, and traditions of the Naga people.
While acknowledging the historical significance of Vande Mataram in India’s freedom movement, the NPCC noted that several stanzas of the song contain references to Hindu deities and religious imagery. The party described attempts to normalize or justify its compulsory singing in a predominantly Christian state as “insensitive and irresponsible.”
The statement further highlighted concerns over what it described as efforts by the BJP and its ideological affiliates to introduce majoritarian influences into educational institutions, schools, and colleges, including in Nagaland.
NPCC called upon Imna Along to respect the faith, identity, and cultural sentiments of the people of Nagaland, stressing that political loyalty must not come at the cost of undermining the state’s religious and social foundation.
“Nagaland deserves leaders who stand for the people, defend constitutional protections and uphold the dignity of our faith and traditions – not those who attempt to justify ideological impositions,” the statement read. The party also urged citizens to remain vigilant and united in safeguarding the unique identity, faith, and constitutional rights of the Naga people.
The statement was signed by Andrew Humtsoe, Chairman of Media & Publicity, NPCC.