Cabinet snub, ST status delay spark 48-hour Moran-Motok shutdown in Upper Assam

Dibrugarh, June 5: A 48-hour shutdown called by Moran and Motok organisations disrupted normal life across parts of Tinsukia and Dibrugarh on Friday, bringing renewed attention to the long-pending demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the two indigenous communities.

The bandh, spearheaded by the All Moran Students’ Union (AMSU), the All Assam Motok Youth Students’ Association (AAMYSA) and allied bodies, affected transport, businesses and public movement across several areas of Upper Assam. Protesters blocked roads, burnt tyres and staged demonstrations, including at Rupai Siding-Kakopathar Tini Ali in Tinsukia district.

While the immediate trigger was the exclusion of Moran and Motok representatives from the recently expanded Assam Cabinet, protest leaders said the deeper grievance was the continued delay in granting ST status despite repeated political assurances.

“We want ST status for our community which was promised before the polls. If the government fails to act, we will have to intensify our movement,” a protester said.

The Moran and Motok communities are among six groups — alongside the Tai Ahom, Chutia, Koch-Rajbongshi and Tea Tribes communities — that have been seeking ST status for over a decade. The issue gained momentum after promises made during the 2014 elections, but remains unresolved despite multiple committees and reports.

Friday’s shutdown underscored the growing frustration among the two communities, particularly in Upper Assam where they hold significant social and political influence. Protest leaders warned that the agitation could intensify if their demands for constitutional recognition and greater political representation continue to remain unaddressed.

For the government, the bandh is a reminder that the ST status issue remains one of Assam’s most sensitive and unresolved political questions. For the Moran and Motok communities, it is increasingly becoming a test of how long they are willing to wait.

Also Read: Congress women’s wing files FIR over ‘defamatory’ youtube video targeting Pala

Also Watch

Find latest news from every corner of Northeast India at hubnetwork.in, your online source for breaking news, video coverage.