Assam: Hagrama Mohilary targets ABSU and UPPL over silence on ST demands, BTC secretariat attack

Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) chief and BTC Chief Executive Member Hagrama Mohilary launched a sharp attack on student and political rivals during a welfare meeting held for surrendered NDFB members at the IT Park in Barmar, Baksa on December 2.

Addressing the gathering, Mohilary questioned the “conspicuous silence” of ABSU President Dipen Boro and UPPL President Pramod Boro on pressing regional issues, alleging that both leaders have “gone quiet” and failed to uphold the interests of the Bodo community.

Mohilary demanded accountability on the attack at the BTC Secretariat, questioning who carried out the incident under the ABSU flag. He accused ABSU of having “no authentic intention” regarding the ongoing demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status and of merely opposing the BPF government without contributing constructive solutions.

Reaffirming BPF’s stand on the tribal status demands of Koch Rajbongshis and Adivasis, Mohilary stated that both communities rightfully deserve recognition to protect and preserve their culture and identity.

He also raised concerns over what he described as an attempt to “divide” the Koch Rajbongshi community into separate categories.

“If the government wants to provide ST status, grant it to the entire Koch Rajbongshi community as one unified group. Why should they be split?” Mohilary questioned, calling for a clear and fair approach from policymakers.

His remarks come amid ongoing debates and negotiations over tribal recognition for multiple ethnic groups in Assam, a matter that continues to hold significant political and social implications in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).