Assam Rally Sees Thousands Demand Scheduled Tribe Status for Chutia Community

In Dhemaji, thousands from the Chutia community protested for Scheduled Tribe status, citing cultural uniqueness and economic challenges. Organised by five groups, the rally emphasised long-standing demands since 1979.

Thousands of individuals from Assam's Chutia community gathered in Dhemaji district on Wednesday for a torchlight protest. They demanded their inclusion in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category. Protesters from various parts of Upper Assam converged in Dhemaji town, marching with torches and chanting "No ST, No Rest." The demonstration was organised by five Chutia groups, including Chutia Yuva Sanmilan and Chutia Jati Mahila Sanmilan.

Protests Across Communities

The Chutia community is not alone in this demand. Assam's Moran, Motok, Tai-Ahom, Koch-Rajbongshi, and Tea-Tribes communities have also been seeking ST status for years. Despite numerous assurances from senior BJP leaders and ministers, these communities continue to be excluded. On Tuesday, the Tai-Ahom community held a similar torchlight protest in Charaideo district.

Chutia Yuva Sanmilan Dhemaji president Pinku Chutia addressed the gathering. "We have been demanding ST status since 1979, as we have all the features of scheduled tribes, but we are still neglected," he stated. He highlighted the community's unique cultural aspects and economic challenges as reasons for their demand.

Government Response

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma previously mentioned that a report by the Group of Ministers (GoM) on granting ST status to six communities would be presented in the assembly. This is expected during the upcoming winter session starting November 25. The anticipation surrounding this report adds urgency to the ongoing protests.

The Chutias are spread throughout Assam, including the Barak Valley. They possess distinct cultural traits such as dress codes, food habits, and language. Despite these characteristics and economic hardships, they remain excluded from the ST category. This exclusion has fueled their persistent protests over the years.

Other communities have also staged demonstrations recently. On October 8 and October 13, tea-tribe workers rallied in Tinsukia and Dibrugarh towns. Additionally, members of the Motok community organised a significant torchlight procession on September 28 in Sadiya, Tinsukia district. These events underscore the widespread demand for ST status among various Assamese communities.

The ongoing protests reflect a broader movement among Assam's indigenous groups seeking recognition and rights. As these communities continue to voice their demands, they await concrete actions from the government to address their longstanding grievances.

With inputs from PTI