The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has condemned and opposed the ongoing workshops organized under the aegis of SPIC MACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth) in various educational institutions across Kohima and Dimapur. The Federation expressed its view that such programs, which seek to impose alien cultural and religious practices, have no place in the Naga homeland.
“It is unacceptable that under the guise of “enriching formal education,” external forces are subtly attempting to dilute our indigenous identity and impose a cultural assimilation agenda. The Naga people have a rich and distinct cultural heritage, and we will not tolerate any attempt to infringe upon our way of life, traditions, and beliefs. Any effort to introduce religious or cultural elements that do not align with our indigenous ethos is an outright violation of our rights as a people,” stated the NSF in a press release issued on March 19.
It also asserted that such workshops are a waste of valuable academic time, depriving students of meaningful education and their right to a curriculum that prioritizes their intellectual and personal growth. “With the already limited academic calendar and various challenges faced by students, it is irresponsible to force programs that neither contribute to their academic advancement nor uphold the indigenous ethos of the Naga people,” expressed the NSF.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
It further argued, “We also take strong exception to the guidelines imposed for these workshops, which dictate specific ceremonial practices, mandatory seating arrangements, and symbolic gestures that are contrary to our customs and beliefs. The enforced removal of footwear before entering the hall, the requirement for a ministry logo, and the regulated felicitation of artists reflect an imposition of foreign cultural norms upon our educational institutions. Such directives undermine the fundamental principles of cultural respect.”
In this regard, the NSF has urged all school administrations, students, and parents to remain vigilant against such imposed cultural and religious programs that do not align with Naga heritage. It further demanded that all SPIC MACAY workshops in Naga institutions be immediately halted and that no such programs be conducted in the future without prior consultation with relevant Naga stakeholders.
“The NSF remains committed to defending the identity, rights, and future of Naga students. We will not hesitate to take appropriate measures, including democratic protests, if our demands are ignored,” asserted the Federation.
