Empowering Assam’s Tea Tribes: Jharkhand Govt’s Bold Move for ST Status Ahead of Crucial Polls
Guwahati, Oct 15: The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) is ramping up efforts to secure Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for tea tribes of Jharkhand origin residing in various states, including Assam. In a strategic move, the JMM government has approved the creation of a special committee to conduct a thorough social and economic survey of these communities. The committee, led by the state Minister for Scheduled Tribe, Scheduled Caste, Minority, and Backward Class Welfare, will address challenges related to housing, employment, and rights faced by these tribes.
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, speaking to local media, emphasized the historical movement of Jharkhand tribals to places like Assam during British rule. He noted that these communities, numbering around 1.5 to 2 million, are still fighting for recognition and rights, despite their significant contributions to Assam’s tea industry. Currently classified as Other Backward Classes (OBC) in Assam, the tribes remain excluded from welfare schemes aimed at STs.
This initiative follows Soren’s earlier request to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, urging him to acknowledge the tea tribes as STs. In his communication, Soren highlighted the tea tribes’ estimated seven million population and their considerable impact on Assam’s economy. Yet, despite their contributions, they face ongoing marginalization due to the lack of ST status.
As Jharkhand gears up for its Assembly elections, this political maneuver aims to spotlight the issue, potentially intensifying the rivalry between JMM and BJP. With Chief Minister Soren challenging Sarma on his home ground, this development could heighten political tensions, particularly in Assam where the BJP has gained substantial influence under Sarma’s leadership. This unfolding narrative not only underscores efforts for tribal equity but also hints at the broader electoral implications for involved states.
Original Story https://assamtribune.com/assam/ahead-of-polls-jharkhand-govt-forms-panel-to-push-for-st-status-for-assams-tea-tribes-1554731
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