SHILLONG, March 20: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has announced plans to stage protests at schools and government events where the full six stanzas of Vande Mataram are sung, arguing that the later verses invoke Hindu deities and represent a form of assimilation that goes against Khasi traditions.
Speaking at an event marking 48 years of the union, KSU general secretary Donald V Thabah recalled the detention of KSU members and said the organisation has consistently faced such challenges while working to protect indigenous identity. He added that many young members continue to carry forward the cause.
Thabah linked the issue to broader concerns, including past attempts to impose Hindi, the Citizenship Amendment Act and the Uniform Civil Code, stating that these measures undermine customary practices. He cautioned that if such directives are accepted, they could set a precedent for further impositions in the future.
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He pointed out that only the first two stanzas of Vande Mataram refer to the land, while the remaining verses praise Hindu deities and urged members to report instances where the full song is performed so that protests can be organised.
The KSU reiterated its demand for stronger anti-influx laws and warned that future generations would judge the current response to these issues. Thabah also emphasised the union’s long-term commitment, saying it would continue its efforts for generations to come to safeguard indigenous identity.
KSU president Lambokstarwell Marngnar, in his address, said the organisation was formed during times of crisis and remains committed to resisting what he described as external forces seeking to marginalise indigenous communities. He urged the youth to uphold unity and core principles.
Marngnar added that KSU members have historically faced imprisonment during campaigns related to boundary disputes, education and migration control. He described jail as a place that strengthens members’ commitment to the cause of the indigenous community.
He also referred to past losses of leaders and members, attributing them to both government actions and the issue of illegal migration and warned that internal divisions could weaken the community. Marngnar appealed to the youth to remain steadfast and continue working towards the upliftment and protection of indigenous people. The union reaffirmed its commitment to pressing its pending demands, including stronger anti-influx measures and said it would continue its work in defence of the indigenous community regardless of criticism. (NNN)
