Assam's Tribal Groups Clash Over Proposed ST Status Expansion
A report suggesting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for six more communities in Assam has sparked controversy and threats of widespread agitation from existing ST groups. The report, prepared by a Group of Ministers (GoM), recommends including the Tai Ahoms, tea tribes (Adivasis), Moran, Motok, Chutia, and Koch-Rajbongshi communities in the ST list.
GoM Report: Key Recommendations
The GoM's report aims to address the demands for ST status while safeguarding the interests of Assam's current Scheduled Tribes. Key recommendations include:
- Inclusion of Morans, Motoks, and Koch-Rajbonghis (in Goalpara) in the ST (Plains) list.
- Creation of a new ST (Valley) category for Ahom, Chutia, tea tribes/Adivasis, and Koch-Rajbongshis (excluding Goalpara), with separate reservations for state jobs and education.
- Existing ST(P) and ST(H) quotas to remain protected.
- All communities to compete under a common ST pool for central government reservations.
Concerns of Existing ST Communities
Aditya Khaklari, chief convener of the Coordinating Committee of Tribal Organisations of Assam (CCTOA), argues that the proposed arrangement will negatively impact existing ST communities at the national level. He fears increased competition for jobs and educational opportunities, particularly from more advanced communities.
According to census data, ST communities comprise 12.4% of Assam's population, while the communities seeking ST status represent approximately 27%.
The CCTOA has threatened a mass movement, including railway and highway blockades, if discussions with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma fail.
Government Response and Prohibitory Orders
In anticipation of unrest, the district administration in Kokrajhar, the headquarters of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), has imposed restrictions on gatherings. This follows a protest at the BTC Secretariat where students damaged infrastructure.
The Bodos, Assam's largest ST community, reside in the BTC.
Reactions from Communities Seeking ST Status
Organizations representing the six communities seeking ST status have expressed satisfaction with the GoM's recommendations.
Khitish Barman, chief adviser of the All Koch Rajbongshi Students Union, stated that they are not seeking conflict with existing ST communities and believe their rights will remain protected.
Potential Impact
The decision to grant ST status to these six communities could significantly alter the socio-economic landscape of Assam. The move aims to address long-standing demands for recognition and access to opportunities, but also carries the risk of exacerbating existing tensions between communities.
