Massive Torch Rally in Udalguri Against ST Status Move for Six Communities

Udalguri witnessed an intense and emotionally charged evening on November 27, as thousands of people from different tribal organisations marched with flaming torches in hand. The protest was not just another public gathering—it was a loud and united outcry against the Assam government’s move to grant Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to six large communities of the state.

The rally, which stretched across several lanes of Udalguri town, was organised by the Udalguri District Committee of ABSU, Tribal Sangha, BSS, ARSU, ABKSU, ABWWF, DuBHA, ARWC, and the Bhergaon District Committee. People from nearby villages also joined in, turning the protest into one of the biggest gatherings the district has seen this year.

Why the Protest Erupted

The core demand of the demonstrators was clear: withdraw the decision to include the Tai Ahom, Chutia, Moran, Motok, Koch-Rajbongshi, and Tea Tribes (Adivasis) in the ST list.

Tribal organisations argue that these six communities are high-population groups, and adding them to the existing ST category may severely affect the rights and opportunities of Assam’s recognised tribal communities.

Concerns Raised by the Tribal Groups

The protesters believe the move will:

• Reduce reservation benefits for existing ST groups
• Increase competition for government jobs
• Affect students from present ST communities in education quotas
• Dilute constitutional safeguards meant for smaller, vulnerable tribes

Many protestors carried placards saying the existing tribal rights would be “swallowed” if the government goes ahead with this policy.

A senior member from one of the organisations said during the rally, “We are not against any community. But protecting our constitutional rights is our duty. If larger communities enter the ST list, the smaller tribes will lose everything.”

The Atmosphere in Udalguri: Streets Lit With Torches

The rally began in the early evening, just as the sky turned darker, making the glow of thousands of torches visible from afar. Drums, slogans, and the steady movement of people created a rare atmosphere of unity and urgency.

Residents who stepped out to watch the procession said they had never seen such a coordinated demonstration in recent years. One shopkeeper near the main market said, “It felt like the entire town came together. Even families were walking with the groups.”

Protest Spreads to Bodoland University

The anger wasn’t limited to Udalguri alone. Earlier that very morning, Bodoland University in Kokrajhar became a major protest zone.

Members of the Bodoland University Students’ Union (BUSU), along with the Coordination Committee of the Tribal Organisations of Assam (CCTOA), began their demonstration before sunrise. They blocked the main gates at Debargaon, preventing students, teachers, and staff from entering the campus.

Campus Brought to a Halt

Because of the barricade:

• Ongoing university examinations had to be cancelled
• Hundreds of students waited outside with no clarity
• Administrative staff were stuck outside the campus
• Classes and official work remained suspended for the entire day

A third-year student said, “We came prepared for exams, but the gates were locked. We didn’t know whether to wait or go home.”
Such disruptions reflect how deeply the issue has affected the region.

What the Tribal Bodies Are Demanding

Although the protests were peaceful, the message was strong and straightforward. The organisations demanded:

H3: Key Demands

• The Assam government must roll back the ST status proposal
• A detailed consultation with tribal bodies before any such decision
• Protection of existing reservation percentages
• Assurance that smaller tribal groups will not lose constitutional safeguards

Community leaders stressed that they are ready for discussions but will continue their protests if the government does not respond.

Government’s Position So Far

While the government has not made a fresh public statement after the protests, officials earlier mentioned that the move aims to “bring long-pending demands of various communities under consideration.”

However, tribal organisations argue that the decision is being taken without proper socio-economic study, and without evaluating how it will affect the rights of existing tribes.

Experts say such decisions must be based on population size, geographical spread, vulnerability, and cultural uniqueness—factors that require careful evaluation.

Why This Issue Matters to Assam’s Tribal Communities

For Assam’s tribal groups, the ST tag is not just a label. It is closely linked to:

• Job reservation quotas
• Educational opportunities
• Land rights
• Cultural preservation
• Political representation

Many small tribes fear that if larger communities—some with several lakh population—enter the same category, they may lose the protection they currently depend on.

A community elder from Kalaigaon said, “We are already struggling for jobs and opportunities. If bigger groups join our category, there will be nothing left for our children.”

What’s Next?

With protests erupting in different districts, experts believe that the state may soon be compelled to hold discussions with tribal leaders. Most protesters say they are prepared for a long campaign, including rallies, sit-ins, and awareness meetings.

The Udalguri torch rally has set a strong tone for the days ahead, and the developments at Bodoland University show that the movement has spread far beyond one district.

For now, the tribal organisations say they will continue their demonstrations until the government provides a clear and satisfactory response.

FAQs

Q1. Why did tribal organisations protest in Udalguri?

They protested against the Assam government’s decision to grant ST status to six large communities, which they say will harm the rights of existing ST groups.

Q2. Which communities are proposed to be included in the ST list?

Tai Ahom, Chutia, Moran, Motok, Koch-Rajbongshi, and Tea Tribes (Adivasis).

Q3. What happened at Bodoland University?

Students’ unions blocked the campus gates, causing exam cancellations and halting administrative activity for the day.

Q4. Are the protests expected to continue?

Yes, according to organisers, demonstrations will continue until the government holds consultations and reconsiders the decision.