Assam CM Accuses Congress of Hindering ST Status for Six Communities

Guwahati, August 10, 2024 — Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has placed the blame on the Congress party for the delay in granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to six communities in Assam. Sarma criticized the previous government for complicating the process with additional stipulations that, according to him, have stalled progress.

Sarma argued that the Congress administration’s requirement for No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from existing tribal groups has impeded the recognition of the new communities. “The delay in tribal status is not due to my administration but to the Congress, which imposed unnecessary conditions like NOCs, affecting the advancement of this crucial recognition,” Sarma stated.

The Chief Minister expressed frustration over the legislative decisions made by the Congress, questioning their rationale. “The inclusion of the NOC clause without considering its implications on existing tribal populations is puzzling. The Congress should clarify their reasoning for this stipulation,” Sarma added.

This controversy has intensified amid ongoing protests by the Tai Ahom community, which has been advocating for ST status and territorial autonomy. On March 5, the Tai Ahom Yuba Parishad Asom (TAYPA) organized a sit-in demanding recognition of Ahom land and ST status, underscoring their call for land allocation and designation of Upper Assam as an Ahom-specific region.