Vande mandate: Stir intensifies in Nagaland, Meghalaya

DIMAPUR/SHILLONG: Opposition to Union home ministry’s directive on singing full six-stanza version of Vande Mataram has intensified in Christian-majority Nagaland and Meghalaya, triggering student protests, political objections and appeals to state govts.Several students and research scholars at Nagaland University boycotted singing the national song during the 8th convocation Friday. Videos on social media showed many seated while Vande Mataram played at the beginning and end of the ceremony attended by Vice President C P Radhakrishnan. Naga Students’ Federation, CM Neiphiu Rio’s Naga People’s Front and church groups have opposed MHA’s directive mandating singing or playing Vande Mataram before the national anthem at official programmes and educational institutions, requiring attendees to stand at attention. NSF said the directive ignores Naga cultural sensitivities, religious beliefs and constitutional safeguards under Article 371(A).Meghalaya has also seen pushback. Voice of People Party legislator Adelbert Nongrum submitted a petition to the chief secretary, protesting the directive.