Implementation of Scheduled Tribe Status for Six Communities in Assam Delayed

The Assam Government has submitted a report from the Group of Ministers regarding the Scheduled Tribe status for six communities. While the report is now in the Assembly, its implementation may face delays due to potential discussions by Assembly committees. If no committee opts to review it, the report can be sent directly to the Centre for legislative action. A Bill has been pending in Parliament since 2019, and the GoM's recommendations aim to address concerns about the interests of existing tribal groups. The outcome will determine the future status of communities like Motok, Moran, and others.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 3, 2025, 10:00 IST

Update on Scheduled Tribe Status in Assam

Guwahati, Dec 3: The Assam Government has submitted a report from the Group of Ministers (GoM) regarding the grant of Scheduled Tribe status to six communities within the state. However, the actual implementation of this report is expected to take some time.

According to official sources, the report was presented in the Assembly on the final day of the winter session, and it is likely that some Assembly committees may wish to review it. This could prolong the discussion process.

If no committee opts to discuss the report, the State Government can forward it directly to the Centre for consideration. Subsequently, the Centre would need to enact legislation in Parliament to officially grant ST status to the six communities.

A Bill concerning this matter has been pending in Parliament since 2019, with ongoing discussions between the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs involving relevant stakeholders.

When asked if tribals within a state can be categorized differently, sources indicated that this is indeed feasible, provided the state finalizes the implementation mechanism.

The GoM has suggested categorizing the tribal communities of Assam, and sources affirm that such a framework is achievable. Southern states have successfully implemented similar arrangements for years; for instance, Andhra Pradesh once had four distinct categories of backward classes.

Sources also mentioned that the Centre has been inquiring how new communities could be granted ST status without adversely affecting the interests of existing tribal groups. The GoM report, which has received approval from the State Cabinet, addresses this concern.

It remains to be seen whether the Central Government finds the GoM report satisfactory. If it does, the pending Bill in Parliament could be passed, granting ST status to the Motok, Moran, Chutia, Koch Rajbonshi, Tai Ahom, and Tea Tribes.

However, the current Bill in Parliament categorizes the tea tribes as separate tribes and sub-tribes.