Historic Adivasi Mahasabha 2026 Concludes with Calls for Unity and Justice

Adivasi Mahasabha Concludes with a Strong Message

Doomdooma, Feb 3: The 21st Adivasi Mahasabha-2026 wrapped up on Sunday at the Dehing Sports Complex Samannay Kshetra in Borgolai, located within the Margherita Legislative Assembly area of Tinsukia district. The event culminated in a significant public gathering that echoed strong demands for unity, dignity, and justice for the Adivasi community.

Hosted by the All Adivasi Students’ Association of Assam (AASAA) in collaboration with the Adivasi Jani Shakti Sangati, the Mahasabha attracted an extraordinary crowd of over two lakh participants from Assam and neighboring states, transforming Borgolai into a vibrant center of political assertion and cultural pride.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, who served as the chief guest at the closing meeting, energized the audience with a compelling speech focused on Adivasi rights and democratic principles.

He began by honoring Assam’s renowned singer Zubeen Garg, connecting his music to the resilience and cultural heritage of the Adivasi people.

Soren highlighted critical issues regarding rights to land, forests, and water, asserting that protecting these resources is a fundamental duty of any government.

He pointed out the contradiction that while Assam’s tea industry thrives on the labor of Adivasis, the community continues to endure significant deprivation and exploitation.

In a pointed critique of the Central government, Soren labeled it a ‘bepari sarkar’ (traders’ government), stating, “When the king is a trader, the subjects become beggars.”

He accused the Central government of misusing institutions like the ED, CBI, Income Tax Department, and the Election Commission for political purposes, warning that such actions undermine the foundations of democracy.

Furthermore, he claimed that the ruling party at the Centre has never genuinely aimed for the equitable development of Adivasi communities.

Stressing the importance of political unity, Soren noted that Adivasis represent a significant portion of Assam’s electorate and asserted that collective political action could significantly influence the State’s political landscape in the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections.

He also promised that, similar to Jharkhand, initiatives providing financial support and social security for Adivasis could be introduced in Assam.

Earlier, the reception committee president, Rana Jyoti Neog, delivered the welcome address. AASAA central executive committee president Rejan Horo and general secretary Deben Orang also spoke, calling for greater unity and a sustained fight for constitutional rights and social justice.

Several notable figures shared the stage, including Jharkhand Tribal Affairs Minister Chamra Linda, MP Bijoy Kumar Hazda, MLA M Tajuddin Raja, former Assam minister Etuwa Munda, Jai Bharat Party state president Tiwari Gorh, and Prity Rekha Barla Nag, the wife of the late Pradip Nag.

Speakers emphasized the wage disparities faced by tea garden workers, highlighting that while daily wages in other states range from Rs 400 to Rs 500, workers in Assam earn only about Rs 250.

The demand for an end to such inequalities and for ‘justice with dignity’ emerged as a central theme throughout the Mahasabha.

The four-day event included delegate meetings, discussion circles, sports activities, cultural parades, and performances, showcasing both the rich heritage and the growing political awareness of the Adivasi community.

On the second day, AASAA central president Rejan Horo raised the association’s flag, while the Mahasabha flag was hoisted by Rana Jyoti Neog. A tribute program for martyrs was inaugurated by general secretary Deben Orang.

Three delegate sessions focused on the historical roots of Adivasi settlements in Assam and the Northeast, land and identity issues, and constitutional justice, including the demand for Scheduled Tribe status, featuring prominent academic Dr. Debabrata Sharma among the speakers.

The venue, spanning nearly 87 bighas, showcased traditional homes, arts and crafts, Birsa Munda Park, a Martyrs’ Park, exhibitions, and trade fairs, making the Mahasabha not just a political gathering but a vibrant expression of Adivasi identity.

Observers believe that the 21st Adivasi Mahasabha at Borgolai has transcended the limits of a typical conference, evolving into a powerful mass movement likely to leave a lasting impact on Assam’s socio-political landscape.