The Zeliangrong Students’ Union Nagaland (ZSUN) has expressed solidarity with the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) over its opposition to the compulsory observance and singing of the Indian national song ‘Vande Mataram’ in official functions and educational institutions.
In a press statement, the union stated that patriotism cannot be imposed through compulsion. “Patriotism cannot be forced, nor can loyalty to a nation be created through compulsion,” ZSUN said, adding that mandating the singing of a particular national song in academic and official settings undermines “the very ethos of democratic values and freedom that India claims to uphold.”
The union further argued that such directives disregard constitutional safeguards provided under Article 371A of the Constitution of India and fail to respect the distinct socio-cultural and customary identity of the Naga people.
In this regard, ZSUN has directed all schools, colleges and educational institutions across Nagaland, particularly those in Peren district, to exercise prudence and refrain from implementing any directive that mandates the singing or playing of ‘Vande Mataram’ in respecting the collective sentiments of the Naga people.
The union also called on educational institutions to observe symbolic and peaceful demonstrations on March 16 to express “our collective resentment against the directive to enforce the singing of Vande Mataram in educationa institutions.”
Further, the ZSUN has instructed its federating units and subordinate bodies to remain vigilant on the issue and report any developments promptly so that a collective response can be taken when necessary.
Reaffirming its position, ZSUN stated that it fully supports the student fraternity in defending “the dignity, constitutional rights, and cultural integrity of the Naga people.”