Protests erupt at Bodoland University after Assam Cabinet approves ST status for six communities

Tensions erupted at Bodoland University in Kokrajhar after the state Cabinet accepted a report from a Group of Ministers recommending Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for six communities. The decision has sparked strong opposition among tribal and student groups in the region.

Members of the Bodoland University Students’ Union (BUSU), along with the CCTOA (Coordination Committee Tribal Organisation of Assam) and other tribal students, launched immediate protests. Demonstrators blocked the main gate of Bodoland University at Debargaon, staging a sit-in and shutting down entry to the campus.

As a result of the blockade, all ongoing examinations at the university were cancelled. Several students who had arrived to attend their exams were seen waiting outside the closed entrance gates.

Protesting tribal students voiced fierce opposition to the proposed ST status. During the demonstration, they raised slogans such as “Stop ST status for six communities,” “Down with the state government,” and “Anti-tribal go back,” — reflecting deep anger and rejection of what they described as a threat to indigenous rights and identity.

In the unfolding unrest, the protesters also prevented administrative staff and university officials from entering the campus, effectively paralysing university operations.