In response to the Ministry of Home Affairs’ directive dated 28 January 2026 mandating the compulsory observance and singing of the Indian National Song Vande Mataram in official functions and educational institutions, the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) expressed serious concern over the move within the Naga homeland.
The NSF has announced it will organise a mass public rally in Kohima on 16 March to collectively voice opposition to the directive.
In addition, all NSF federating units and subordinate bodies across Nagaland have been instructed to hold peaceful demonstrations at their respective offices on the same day. Educational institutions under NSF jurisdiction have also been asked to observe symbolic demonstrations within campuses.
The collective exercise, according to NSF, aims to express the opposition of the Naga people to the compulsory imposition of Vande Mataram, protect the rights and conscience of students, reaffirm the distinct identity and historical consciousness of the Naga people, and demonstrate unity in safeguarding our rights and dignity.
In solidarity, the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) has directed all schools, colleges, and educational institutions under its jurisdiction in Mokokchung district not to enforce or mandate the singing or playing of Vande Mataram. AKM also called for symbolic and peaceful demonstrations within campuses on 16 March, emphasizing that such actions should be dignified and disciplined.
AKM highlighted that educational institutions are meant to promote inclusive learning, critical thinking, and respect for diverse identities. The body urged institutional authorities to maintain peace, unity, and discipline while collectively upholding the dignity, rights, and identity of the Naga people.
Both NSF and AKM stressed that the demonstrations are symbolic, peaceful, and aimed at asserting the conscience and rights of Naga students rather than opposing the Indian state. Student leaders have also requested all participating units to submit pictorial and video documentation of the demonstrations for record-keeping.