Protests erupt in Assam’s hill districts over Deputy Speaker’s remarks on Article 244(A)

Widespread protests rocked Assam’s hill districts on Monday following controversial remarks made by Dr. Numal Momin, Deputy Speaker of the Assam Legislative Assembly and MLA from Bokajan. 

His comments on Article 244(A) of the Constitution—provisions that allow for the creation of an autonomous state within Assam—have been slammed by various tribal groups, political leaders, and netizens as “anti-tribal” and “anti-constitutional.”

The uproar culminated in a major demonstration in Diphu, where protestors gathered in front of Rajiv Gandhi Bhavan and burned effigies of Dr. Momin and Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma. Demonstrators raised slogans including “Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma Go Back,” “Dr. Numal Momin Anti-Tribal, Go Back,” and “CEM Tuliram Ronghang Murdabad,” reflecting growing frustration with the perceived neglect and marginalisation of tribal interests.

The protest was spearheaded by the Karbi Anglong District Congress Committee (KA-DCC) and West Karbi Anglong District Congress Committee (WKA-DCC), with strong participation from Congress workers, tribal youth, and local organisations. 

Prominent leaders at the forefront included Raton Engti (KA-DCC President), Augustine Enghee (WKA-DCC President), Ashok Teron (APCC General Secretary), Bidyasing Rongpi (former KA-DCC President In-Charge), Jagat Sing Engti (ex-MLA and APCC General Secretary), and KA-DCC spokesperson Charisma Rongpipi.

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Following the protest, the leaders submitted an 11-page memorandum to the Governor of Assam through the Deputy Commissioner of Karbi Anglong, Nirola Phangchopi, ACS. 
The document outlined serious allegations of corruption and administrative failure in the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), led by Chief Executive Member Dr. Tuliram Ronghang.

The backlash against Dr. Momin’s statement has ignited fresh debate over the demand for implementation of Article 244(A), a long-standing aspiration for many in the hill districts seeking greater political autonomy and protection of tribal rights. Social media platforms, too, have seen an outpouring of criticism, with many accusing the BJP-led government of attempting to dilute constitutional safeguards for indigenous communities.

As public anger mounts, the protests signal not only discontent with a particular statement but a broader sense of alienation among tribal populations in Assam’s hill districts, reviving calls for inclusive governance and respect for constitutional guarantees.