Assam's ST Status Bid for Six Communities Rejected by RGI, BJSM Vows Legal Challenge
The Registrar General of India (RGI) has repeatedly rejected the Assam Government's proposal to grant scheduled Tribe (ST) status to six communities, citing failure to meet constitutional and legal requirements. The Bodoland Janajati Suraksha Manch (BJSM) has strongly opposed this move, with its Working President, DD Narzary, arguing that these communities do not meet the criteria laid down by the Lokur Committee (1965) and upheld by the Supreme Court of India.
Narzary, from the BJSM, contends that the Koch-Rajbongshi community's claim for ST status is contradictory, as they are recognized as Scheduled Castes in West Bengal. He further argues that the Tai Ahoms, despite being advanced and politically empowered, cannot be categorized as a backward or primitive tribe. The Moran, Matak, and Chutia communities, he believes, have assimilated into the Assamese mainstream society, making their demand for ST status unfounded. Narzary also asserts that the Adivasi Tea Tribes were brought to Assam by the British as bonded labourers and are not aboriginal to the land.
The BJSM views this move as anti-tribal, unconstitutional, and politically motivated. It has condemned the Government of Assam for betraying the tribal people and has warned of statewide democratic agitation if the decision is not revoked. The BJSM is determined to approach the Supreme Court of India to challenge this move and protect the rights of genuine scheduled Tribes of Assam.
The BJSM's opposition to the proposed grant of ST status to six communities in Assam highlights the complex and contentious nature of tribal rights and recognition in the state. The matter now awaits a judicial review, with the BJSM committed to protecting the interests of genuine scheduled Tribes.
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