GUWAHATI: In a significant political development that could reshape Assam's electoral landscape, the Tai Ahom community has launched a massive protest movement targeting the ruling BJP government. Thousands of community members took to the streets of Guwahati, demanding immediate fulfillment of the long-pending promise of Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.
The rally, organized by the Tai Ahom Yuva Parishad among other community groups, saw participants from across Assam converging to voice their frustration. Protesters carried banners and placards with messages like "Broken Promises Won't Win Votes" and "ST Status Now or BJP Go."
The Ultimatum That Could Change Assam's Politics
Community leaders delivered a clear warning to the BJP-led government: either grant ST status before the upcoming elections or face complete electoral boycott in Tai Ahom-dominated constituencies. This threat carries substantial weight, given the community's significant population and influence in several key assembly segments.
"We have been patient for too long," declared a senior community leader during the rally. "Every election, we hear the same promises, but after voting, our demand gets pushed aside. This time, we mean business - no status, no votes."
Historical Context of the Demand
The Tai Ahom community's quest for ST status spans decades. Despite their historical significance as rulers of the Ahom kingdom that governed Assam for nearly 600 years, the community has been seeking constitutional safeguards to protect their cultural identity and secure better access to educational and employment opportunities.
The BJP had included the ST status promise in its election manifestos, raising hopes within the community. However, the delayed implementation has led to growing impatience and frustration among Tai Ahom members.
Political Implications for BJP
This development poses a serious challenge for the BJP in Assam, where the party has enjoyed substantial support from various ethnic communities. The Tai Ahom community's electoral influence extends across multiple districts, making their support crucial for any party aspiring to form the government.
Political analysts suggest that if the community follows through with their boycott threat, it could significantly impact the BJP's performance in several key constituencies. The timing of this ultimatum, coming ahead of important elections, adds pressure on the government to address the issue promptly.
Government's Response and Next Steps
While state government representatives have acknowledged receiving the community's memorandum, no concrete timeline has been provided for addressing the ST status demand. Community leaders have indicated that this rally is just the beginning of their intensified agitation.
"We are giving the government one last opportunity to fulfill its promise," stated a youth leader from the community. "If we don't see concrete action within the specified timeframe, our protest movement will escalate, and we will ensure our voice is heard loud and clear during elections."
The situation remains fluid, with both community representatives and government officials expected to engage in further discussions to resolve the impasse before it affects the political equations in the state.
