The Assam government’s Group of Ministers (GoM), tasked with examining the demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status by six communities, is set to submit its report by March 2024. Tribal Affairs Minister Ranoj Pegu announced this in the state assembly on Tuesday, March 4, in response to a resolution moved by Leader of Opposition Debabrata Saikia.
The six communities—Moran, Matak, Ahom, Chutia, Koch-Rajbongshi, and Tea Tribes—have long sought ST status. Saikia, a Congress MLA, urged the state government to expedite the process and ensure that the inclusion of these communities does not affect the existing benefits of currently recognized ST groups in Assam.
Pegu stated that the reconstituted GoM has completed consultations with stakeholders, including representatives from the six communities. He acknowledged initial challenges due to divergent opinions but emphasized efforts to facilitate discussions and reach a consensus.
“The GoM will submit its report to the chief minister within March. We are making efforts to ensure its timely submission within this session, but if that is not possible, we assure that it will be presented in the next session,” Pegu said. The ongoing budget session is scheduled to conclude on March 25.
The GoM was originally formed under former Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and was reconstituted after Himanta Biswa Sarma assumed office. Following Pegu’s assurance, Saikia withdrew his resolution.
The report’s submission is a critical step in addressing the long-standing demand for ST status, which could significantly impact the socio-political landscape of Assam.
