Adivasi groups rally in Assam's Kokrajhar to push ST status demand

Adivasi organisations renewed pressure on the Centre and the Assam government after thousands gathered for a major rally in Kokrajhar, calling for swift action on long-pending commitments, particularly the demand for Scheduled Tribe status.

The demonstration, led by the All Adivasi Students’ Association of Assam (AASAA) and eight allied groups under the Coordination Committee of Adivasi Organisations, began at the Dimolmgaon Playground and proceeded to Green Field. Participants highlighted what they described as years of government inaction on key issues tied to the Adivasi peace accord and broader welfare measures.

AASAA president Godwin Hembram said the peace agreement signed with Adivasi militant groups remained largely unimplemented, leaving rehabilitation and development initiatives stalled. He urged authorities to move immediately on promised socio-economic programmes, warning that delays were eroding community trust.

Protesters also pressed for the revision of daily wages to Rs 551, distribution of land pattas, and formal recognition of Adivasis as Scheduled Tribes — a demand leaders say is central to securing constitutional safeguards and long-term advancement.

The march concluded without incident at Green Field, though organisers cautioned that their campaign would escalate if the government failed to respond promptly.