The Leader of the Opposition in the Assam Legislative Assembly, Wajed Ali Choudhury, raised a crucial issue on Tuesday, urging the state and central governments to grant Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to six communities. Choudhury’s appeal was made under Rule 301 of the Assembly, highlighting the long-pending demand of the tea tribes, Koch-Rajbongshi, Moran, Matak, Ahom, and Chutia communities. These communities have been democratically agitating for ST status for many years, but despite assurances from the government, their demands remain unfulfilled.
Choudhury pointed out that the recent suggestion by Union minister Jual Oram to establish museums instead of granting ST status is an injustice to the aspirations and struggle of these communities. While acknowledging the importance of museums in preserving cultural heritage, Choudhury emphasized that they cannot replace constitutional recognition, reservation benefits, or social justice. He questioned the government about the current status of the process, the central government’s stand on the issue, and the implementation of the recommendations of the Biplab Sharma Committee.
Choudhury stressed that the issue is closely linked to the identity, dignity, and constitutional rights of lakhs of indigenous people in Assam. He demanded concrete action from the government to fulfill the long-pending demand for ST status, rather than mere announcements and assurances. However, the Congress MLAs staged a walkout from the Assembly in protest, dissatisfied with the government’s response on the issue.
Choudhury expressed hope that the state government would engage in meaningful discussions with the central government to expedite the process of granting ST status and ensure the legitimate constitutional rights of the six communities.
