SHILLONG, MAR 19: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has warned of statewide protests in schools and government functions where the full six-stanza Vande Mataram is performed, arguing that certain portions conflict with indigenous Khasi beliefs and traditions.
Speaking during an event marking 48 years of the union, KSU general secretary Donald V Thabah said the organisation would actively oppose what it views as attempts to impose practices that undermine local identity. He alleged that the later verses of the song invoke Hindu deities and described the directive as a “process of assimilation.”
Thabah also recalled past detentions of KSU members, stating that many youths continue to take part in movements to defend indigenous rights. He linked the issue to previous concerns over the imposition of Hindi and policies such as the Citizenship Amendment Act and the proposed Uniform Civil Code, which he claimed could affect customary practices in the state.
“If we allow them to direct us to sing… one day we will have to toe the line,” he said, urging members to report instances where the full song is performed so that protests can be organised.
The union reiterated its long-standing demand for stronger anti-influx laws and cautioned that failure to act now could have long-term consequences for future generations.
KSU president Lambokstarwell Marngnar also addressed members, stating that the organisation remains committed to resisting what he described as external pressures threatening indigenous communities. He called on the youth to remain united and uphold the principles of the union.
“Our members have always faced challenges with one objective — to ensure that the indigenous community is not marginalised,” Marngnar said, while recalling past movements related to boundary disputes, education, and migration control.
He further warned that internal divisions could weaken the community’s ability to respond to such challenges, urging young people to take responsibility as future leaders.
The KSU reaffirmed its commitment to continue advocating for indigenous rights and pressing pending demands, including stricter mechanisms to regulate influx, stating that the future of the movement depends on the dedication of the younger generation.