The Kohima Chakhesang Students’ Union (KCSU) has announced its withdrawal from the upcoming Independence Day programme, citing solidarity with the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) over its opposition to the compulsory singing of the revised national song, “Vande Mataram,” during official functions and educational institutions.
Meanwhile, the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) has expressed concern over any compulsory imposition of the song, calling for respect for freedom of conscience, religious conviction and diversity. The NBCC said patriotism should stem from willing participation rather than compulsion and urged the Government and all stakeholders to address the issue with sensitivity, restraint and dialogue.The NBCC also appealed against allowing the issue to become a source of communal tension or social division, stressing that India’s unity should be strengthened through mutual respect rather than forced conformity.
