Assam CM Sarma says protesters seeking ST status are genuine; BJP workers may join the demand

Guwahati: Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that those protesting seeking Scheduled Tribe (ST) are genuine and even BJP workers will join the protest for this is genuine demand.

Tai Ahoms, Morans, Mottocks, Chutias, Koch-Rajbongshis and Tea Tribes have long demanded ST status.

A massive protest took place in Tinsukia in Assam. Thousands of Adivasis and tea-garden workers gathered at the Hukan Pukhuri playground demanding ST status, land ownership rights, and a wage hike.


Organised by the Assam Tea Tribe Students’ Association (ATTSA) and the All-Adivasi Students’ Association of Assam (AASAA).

Sarma visited Tinsukia on Wednesday to take part in several programmes. Sarma said, “There will be a protest for genuine demand. Those protesting seeking Scheduled Tribe (ST) are genuine. BJP is also supporting the demand for ST. Even workers of BJP will participate in the protest.”

He added, “We are also related to this protest. It is rightful demand and protest will take place.”

Organisers warned that the movement will continue across Assam until concrete action is taken, declaring the protest a “fight for dignity, identity, and justice.”

Last month a four day long economic blockade launched by the Moran community paralysed large parts of Upper Assam. Organised by the All-Moran Students Union (AMSU) in association with several other Moran organisations, the agitation seeks Scheduled Tribe (ST) status and inclusion of the community under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

Movement of commodities including oil, coal, tea and timber was severely affected.