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Assam Begins Formal Consultations on ST Status for Six Communities

A key tribal coalition seeks a one-month expert review before any decision.

Overview

  • The state tribal affairs minister held the first meeting with the Coordination Committee of Tribal Organisations of Assam to discuss the Group of Ministers’ report.
  • CCTOA submitted interim objections and will form an expert panel to deliver consolidated recommendations within a month.
  • The government says proposed safeguards would protect existing Scheduled Tribes’ rights, with officials urging CCTOA to examine specific sections of the report.
  • CCTOA requested a Chief Minister–level meeting and a tripartite discussion involving the Union home minister, and it has paused street protests during the talks.
  • The All Assam Tribal Students Union has petitioned the President opposing inclusion, arguing the six groups do not meet Lokur Committee criteria and could dilute current ST benefits.