Newmai News Network
DIMAPUR, SEP 26: The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has “vehemently” opposed the proposed ‘Gau Dhwaj Yatra,’ scheduled for September 28, 2024. “This event, which seeks to promote a nationwide ban on cow slaughter, is a blatant assault on the cultural, religious, and social values of the Naga people. It is nothing less than an attempt to impose external religious beliefs and practices upon the Naga homeland, and the NSF will not tolerate such actions,” a statement from the apex Naga student body said today.
The NSF, however, said it “appreciates” the State Government of Nagaland for denying permission for this event to be held in Kohima. This decision reflects an understanding of and respect for the distinct customs, traditions, and dietary practices of the Naga people, which are protected under the special provisions of Article 371A of the Constitution of India, the statement also said.
Related news | Nagaland Prohibits Gau Dhwaj Yatra to Maintain Peace and Order
“However, despite the clear denial of permission and in utter disregard of the NSF’s firm stand, the organizers have brazenly chosen to go ahead with the event. This is an act of provocation and disrespect, not only to the NSF but to the entire Naga community. We issue a stern warning to the organizers and all individuals planning to take part in this event. The NSF will not allow such divisive activities to take place anywhere in the Naga homeland,” the NSF warned.
The Government of Nagaland, along with the Naga Legislative Assembly (NLA), has already made it clear that the Ban on cow slaughter Act 2019 will not be enforced in the state, given the protections under Article 371A, the NSF pointed out. “This provision safeguards Naga customs, culture, and religious practices, including our traditional dietary habits, which may differ from those of other regions,” it also said. It is through Article 371A that the Naga people are empowered to make their own decisions on matters related to religion, culture, and land ownership, including the right to slaughter cattle according to our customs, the NSF added.
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The NSF then said it “stands firm” in its commitment to defending the socio-religious harmony of the Naga homeland. The NSF asserted that it will not allow any event that threatens to disrupt this harmony or undermine the rights conferred upon us by Article 371A. “Should the organizers of the ‘Gau Dhwaj Yatra’ continue with their plans, the NSF, with the support of the Naga people, will take all necessary measures to ensure the event does not take place on Naga soil,” it added. The NSF further said it will not hesitate to pursue strong, decisive actions to protect “our identity, our land, and our rights”.
The NSF statement then said, “Let this serve as a final warning to the organizers and their supporters: any attempts to hold this event will be met with swift and resolute opposition from the NSF and the Naga people,” while adding, “We will not allow our land to be used as a platform for divisive and inflammatory activities that are foreign to our traditions”.
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