Tribal body threatens protest over alleged fake certificate in Assam panchayat election

The All Assam Tribal Sangha has warned of launching a "democratic movement" if authorities fail to act against a newly-elected panchayat member accused of using fraudulent tribal documents to contest from a reserved seat.

Pallavi Baruah, who won from ward number 6 of Golai Gaon Panchayat under the Digboi constituency, allegedly submitted fake certificates claiming membership of the Chakma tribal community during the recent panchayat elections. The ward was reserved for Scheduled Tribe candidates.

The controversy centres on Baruah's claim to belong to the Chakma community, which the tribal organisation says is false. Chakmas are recognised as a Scheduled Tribe in the hills category and include refugees who migrated to India.

The Margherita sub-divisional committee of the All Assam Tribal Sangha filed a formal complaint with the Tinsukia District Commissioner on June 21, alleging electoral fraud and demanding immediate action. The memorandum detailed what the organisation termed "fraudulent activities" involving fake documentation during the election process.

However, according to tribal sangha representatives, the district administration has remained silent on the matter despite the serious allegations. Officials from the District Commissioner's office were not immediately available for comment.

The timing has added urgency to the dispute, as Baruah is scheduled to take her oath of office on July 3. The tribal organisation has made it clear that allowing her to assume office would trigger organised protests.

"If Pallavi Baruah takes the oath and assumes the panchayat position, the All Assam Tribal Sangha Margherita sub-divisional committee will be compelled to launch a democratic movement," the organisation stated, demanding immediate cancellation of her ward member position.