Assam Elections 2026: Tribal body urges indigenous voters to boycott BJP

Guwahati: Ahead of the April 9 Assembly elections, a tribal organisation in Assam has called on indigenous communities to either boycott the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) or withhold their support from it.

In a statement issued on April 6, the All Assam Sons of the Soil Indigenous Kochari Somaj accused the BJP-led State government of neglecting tribal interests and undermining indigenous rights. The organisation also alleged that the government’s move to place six communities under a “protected class” could dilute the identity of existing tribal groups.

The six communities include Adivasi (tea tribes), Chutia, Koch-Rajbongshi, Matak, Moran and Tai-Ahom. Existing tribal groups have been demanding assurances that their rights and privileges will not be affected before any move to grant Scheduled Tribe status to these communities.

The organisation alleged that the BJP’s policies have adversely impacted the political, social, economic and educational interests of indigenous communities, despite claims of inclusive governance.

In the statement, signed by Manas Rabha, Nilsing Mushahary and Pabitra Sonowal, the group said indigenous communities have not received adequate opportunities, facilities or recognition, and urged them to unite and refrain from supporting the BJP in the upcoming elections.