Tuliram Ronghang revives Article 244(A) demand in Assam Assembly, pushes for autonomous state for hill districts

In his maiden speech as an MLA in the Assam Legislative Assembly, Dr. Tuliram Ronghang, Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), strongly renewed the long-standing demand for implementation of Article 244(A) of the Constitution to create an Autonomous State within Assam for Karbi Anglong, West Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao districts.

Dr. Ronghang, who was elected from the 111-Rongkhang Legislative Assembly constituency, said the demand reflects the aspirations, identity and developmental needs of people living in the hill districts.

“This is not merely a political issue; it reflects the hopes, identity and aspirations of our people for greater empowerment and self-governance,” Ronghang said while addressing the Assembly.

He pointed out that the combined geographical area of Karbi Anglong, West Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao stands at 10,434 square kilometres, making it larger than states such as Goa, Sikkim and Tripura.

Highlighting the decades-long movement, Ronghang said the demand for greater autonomy has continued for over 40 years and has witnessed major sacrifices, including the loss of more than 500 lives during the struggle.

He further noted that more than ten militant groups had laid down arms, joined the mainstream and signed Memorandums of Settlement (MoS) as part of efforts linked to the autonomy movement.

Expressing optimism, Ronghang said he believes the present state leadership would address the longstanding issue. He thanked Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and appealed to members of the Assembly to extend support to the demand.

“I remain committed to ensuring that the voices of our people are heard and represented with sincerity and determination,” he said.

Article 244(A), introduced through a constitutional amendment, provides Parliament with powers to create an autonomous state within Assam comprising tribal areas, along with provisions for a legislature and council of ministers.

The renewed demand in the Assembly is expected to revive discussions surrounding political autonomy and governance aspirations of tribal communities in Assam’s hill districts, at a time when the state government has been engaging with stakeholders on issues related to autonomy and regional development.