Silchar, Assam: Tribal student unions across the Barak Valley united on Friday in Silchar to hold a massive public rally protesting the proposed move to grant Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to six indigenous communities in Assam.
The joint protest, organized at the Narsingtola Ground in Silchar, saw participation from several key organizations, including:
All Dimasa Students’ Union (ADSU), Cachar District Committee (who led the rally).
- All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU)
- Mising Students’ Union (MSU)
- Karbi Students’ Union (KSU)
- Rava Students’ Union (RSU)
Fears of Dilution Spark Outrage
During the protest, activists from the All Dimasa Students’ Union, Cachar District Committee, raised various slogans, vehemently expressing their opposition to the potential Scheduled Tribe status for the six groups.
The student leaders stated clearly that they will not accept the tribal status for these six communities. They warned that if the government proceeds with the decision, a strong mass movement will be launched in response. The protest highlights the deep-seated fears among existing tribal groups that their constitutional rights and privileges will be diluted by expanding the ST list.
The Communities Seeking ST Status
The communities that have been demanding constitutional recognition as Scheduled Tribes (ST) for a long time include:
- Tai Ahom
- Moran
- Motock
- Koch Rajbanshi
- Chutiya
The Assam State Government has reportedly given positive signals regarding this matter, a decision that the protesting tribal unions are now strongly rejecting.
