Students of Bodoland University joined widespread protests against the Assam Cabinet’s recent decision to grant Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to six communities, raising concerns over the rights and representation of existing tribal groups.
The demonstrators gathered at the BTC Secretariat, raising slogans including ‘We want Hagrama’ and demanding the government revoke the ST‑status decision. Protesters warned that granting ST status to these communities could dilute constitutional safeguards and educational opportunities for established tribal groups.
The six communities proposed for ST status include Tai Ahom, Chutia, Moran, Motok, Koch‑Rajbongshi, and various Tea Tribes. The Cabinet’s decision follows a report submitted by a Group of Ministers (GoM) recommending the move.
It may be mentioned that the students at Bodoland University have boycotted exams and staged a rally at the campus gate following the cabinet’s decision, while other tribal organisations in the Bodoland Territorial Region joined demonstrations in solidarity. The protests, though largely peaceful, have caused disruptions at the BTC Secretariat.
The All Bodo Students Union and allied tribal bodies have vowed to intensify their agitation until the government addresses their demands.
