Assam: BTC calls emergency meeting over ST status approval

Guwahati: The Speaker of the Bodoland Territorial Council Legislative Assembly (BTCLA) has called an emergency, all-party meeting at 2:30 PM on Sunday amid rising political tension in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).

The move comes after the Assam Government approved Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for six communities, sparking public concern.

Officials confirmed that all members of the BTCLA, across party lines, have been instructed to attend, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

According to senior sources, the Speaker intends to ensure that “every voice inside the House is heard,” as the state decision has already prompted strong reactions in several areas of the BTR.

The Assam Cabinet’s approval to include six communities in the ST list has raised concerns over possible demographic changes, dilution of job reservations, and potential impact on political protections currently held by Bodo and other recognised tribal groups.

Several tribal organisations have cautioned that the inclusion could “disturb the fragile socio-political balance of the region.”

In recent days, community groups have submitted memoranda, issued statements, and held protests expressing concern that the government’s decision could impact existing rights frameworks in tribal-administered areas.

The emergency session is expected to review public sentiment, ground realities, and potential implications for governance in the BTR.

Sources said the BTC Speaker aims to develop a collective stance before presenting the council’s official position to the Assam Government.

Further updates are expected following the 2:30 PM session.