Assam's Tribal Status Proposal Sparks Controversy in Assembly

An interim report by the Group of Ministers (GoM) proposed a three-tier classification for granting Scheduled Tribe status to six communities in Assam, aiming to accommodate their demands without disrupting existing reservations. Opposition parties sought further discussion, but the Speaker deferred it for a future session.

On Saturday, the Assam assembly witnessed the presentation of an interim report by the Group of Ministers (GoM) proposing a classification system for granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to six major communities. This move aims to fulfill demands without affecting the reservation status of existing tribal groups.

Tribal Affairs Minister Ranoj Pegu, who leads the three-member GoM, emphasized the importance of inclusivity. The report suggests a new category, 'ST (Valley),' for Ahom, Chutia, Tea Tribes, and Kock-Rajbongshi, excluding undivided Goalpara district, while Moran, Matak, and Kock-Rajbongshi from Goalpara are recommended for the 'ST (Plains)' category.

The report's limited distribution to legislative leaders led to demands from opposition parties for further discussion. However, the Speaker postponed the debate, citing the possibility of addressing it in a future session.

(With inputs from agencies.)