Assam Tribal Unrest: Protests Erupt Over ST Status Decision for 6 Communities
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Kokrajhar, Assam - A torchlight rally, led by the All Bodo Students Union (ABSU) and several allied tribal organisations, took place in Kokrajhar town on Thursday, condemning the state cabinet's decision to grant Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to six communities. The protesters, primarily students and youth, marched through the streets carrying placards and banners, demanding the withdrawal of the decision. They argued that it would undermine the rights and interests of the existing ST communities. The protest, which was joined by the Coordination Committee of Tribal Organisations of Assam, Tribal Sangha, Boro Samaj, Rabha, and Garo students body, reflects deep concerns among tribal groups about policy decisions affecting their status and rights in the state. ABSU spokesperson expressed concerns that the decision would jeopardise the socio-political identity and rights of existing ST communities. Tribal students at Bodoland University also staged a protest on the campus, opposing the cabinet's decision. The agitation escalated after students boycotted their third semester final examination and assembled at the university's main gate to voice their concerns. The protesters argued that extending ST status to additional communities would dilute the rights and constitutional safeguards of existing tribal groups, affecting opportunities in education and employment. The university authorities postponed the third semester examination after the unrest. The state cabinet had approved the report of the Group of Ministers regarding the proposal for ST status to six major communities of Assam - Tai Ahom, Chutia, Moran, Motok, Koch-Rajbongshi, and Tea Tribes. The report will be submitted to the legislative assembly and is expected to be tabled before the ongoing winter session ends on Saturday.
