Assam Minister Atul Bora calls ST status demand reasonable, urges inclusive progress

BJP leader Jagdish Borah has stated that Aditya Khakhlari, Secretary of the Tribal Affairs Union, does not have the authority to act as a constitutional guardian in matters concerning tribal classification. His remarks came in response to growing demands for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for six communities in Assam.

“There is no provision requiring him to consult anyone for the tribal classification of these six communities,” Borah emphasized, recalling that the BJP had promised to address the issue within 100 days of assuming power.

Borah further stated that the government should grant ST status to these communities without infringing upon the constitutional rights of those already recognized as Scheduled Tribes, ensuring a balanced approach that respects existing provisions.

Meanwhile, protests over the tribal classification of these six communities have intensified across several districts. Communities including Ahom, Chutiya, Moran, Motok, Koch Rajbongshi, and Tea Garden workers have been demanding recognition under the ST category for decades.

Assam Minister Atul Bora described the demand as reasonable and justified, highlighting that granting ST status would allow historically marginalized communities to progress alongside more advanced groups and reduce social and economic disparities.