The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has strongly condemned the ongoing workshops conducted by the Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth (SPIC MACAY) in various educational institutions across Kohima and Dimapur. The federation has termed these workshops as an attempt to impose external cultural influences that do not align with the indigenous identity of the Naga people.
In a statement, the NSF criticized the programs for introducing what it described as “alien cultural and religious practices” under the guise of enriching formal education. The student body expressed concerns that such initiatives could gradually erode Naga traditions and beliefs.
The NSF alleged that the workshops were part of a broader effort to subtly push a cultural assimilation agenda. “We strongly oppose any attempt to infringe upon our traditions, beliefs, and way of life. The introduction of foreign cultural elements in educational institutions is an outright violation of our rights and must not be tolerated,” the federation stated.
The student organization also raised objections to the disruption of academic schedules caused by these workshops. Given the already limited academic calendar and challenges faced by students, the NSF argued that diverting attention to non-academic programs was unacceptable.
The NSF also took exception to certain guidelines imposed during these workshops, including:
Mandatory removal of footwear before entering the hall.
Regulated ceremonial practices that do not align with Naga customs.
Compulsory ministry logos and specific felicitation protocols for artists.
“These directives undermine cultural respect and autonomy within our institutions and reflect an imposition of foreign traditions upon the Naga people,” the statement added.
The NSF has urged school administrations, students, and parents to remain vigilant against imposed cultural and religious programs. It has demanded an immediate halt to all SPIC MACAY workshops in Naga educational institutions and insisted that no future programs be conducted without prior consultation with relevant Naga stakeholders.
