SHILLONG: North Shillong MLA Adelbert Nongrum has voiced strong opposition to making the singing of all six stanzas of Vande Mataram compulsory, emphasizing concerns from the Christian community.
Speaking to reporters, Nongrum said that while he has several issues to raise in the Autumn session of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, the Vande Mataram directive is among his top priorities.
Nongrum noted that the Speaker did not accept his resolution against the directive, but he remains firm in his stance. He argued that only the first two stanzas should be sung, as the remaining four reference deities that Christians cannot worship.
He declared his willingness to face imprisonment rather than see Christians, children, and the community forced to sing all six stanzas.
ALSO READ: North Shillong MLA Seeks Vande Mataram Review
Calling Monday a “day of victory,” Nongrum pointed out that only the National Anthem and State Anthem were played, showing that singing all stanzas of Vande Mataram is not mandatory.
He asserted that if the song is not played in the Assembly, it should not be required in schools, colleges, or government departments.
Addressing reports of possible punishment for non-compliance, Nongrum said he would accept three years in jail to protect his faith and the rights of others.
He thanked the public for their prayers and support, and also expressed gratitude to the Speaker and state government for not enforcing the singing of Vande Mataram during the session.
Nongrum concluded by attributing the outcome to divine wisdom granted to the Assembly and government.
(4FrontMedia news)
