Koch-Rajbongshi students’ union warns Assam government over ST demand ahead of 2026 polls

The 25th Martyrs’ Day of the Koch-Rajbongshi Students’ Union was observed on January 7, at Sidalsati in Bongaigaon district, with leaders renewing their demand for Scheduled Tribe status for the Koch-Rajbongshi community and a separate Kamtapur.

Addressing the gathering, All Assam Koch-Rajbongshi Students’ Union (AKRSU) General Secretary Balaram Barman warned the state government of serious consequences if the long-pending demand for tribal status is not fulfilled before the 2026 Assam Assembly elections. He also stressed that the Government of India must initiate talks on the issue of a separate Kamtapur.

Barman strongly criticised the rejection of the Ministerial Group’s report on tribal status by the CCTOA and questioned the role of Minister Aditya Khakhlari in the matter. He alleged that continued delay in granting constitutional recognition to the Koch-Rajbongshi community could lead to unrest.

Warning the Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Barman said that denying the community its constitutional rights ahead of the 2026 elections could create a serious situation in the state. The event was attended by leaders, activists and members of the Koch-Rajbongshi community, who reiterated their resolve to intensify the movement until their demands are met.

The Martyrs’ Day programme was attended by AKRSU leaders, activists and supporters from different parts of the state, who reiterated their commitment to continue the struggle for Scheduled Tribe status and political dialogue on Kamtapur.