India, March 3 -- A constitutional debate surfaced in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly after MLA Dr Tseilhoutuo Rhutso objected to the compulsory singing of Vande Mataram under a January 28, 2026 directive issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

He sought an urgent review, citing Nagaland's special constitutional safeguards.Speaking during the Motion of Thanks to the Governor's Address in the Eighth Session, the 9 A/C Kohima Town legislator endorsed the government's development agenda.

However, he flagged "constitutional and conscientious concerns" over the mandate to sing or play the National Song across States and Union Territories.While acknowledging the song's role in the freedom movement, Dr Rhutso questioned its enforceabil...