Assam Government to Review Keot Community's SC Status Demand

Government's Steps Towards SC Status for Keot Community

Biswanath, July 27: The government of Assam is set to compile a report for the central authorities concerning the Keot community's request for Scheduled Caste (SC) classification.

This announcement was made by Ranjeet Kumar Dass, the Assam Law and Justice Minister, during his visit to Biswanath on Sunday, where he assessed the execution of various government initiatives in the area.

Dass informed reporters that the Keot community has submitted a formal request to the state for SC recognition, which is currently under review.

He stated, “After we complete the evaluation of their request, we will send our findings to the Government of India, as it is the central government that has the power to grant SC or ST status to any community.”

The minister elaborated that the Keot community in Assam is divided into two main groups: Jaloi Keots and Haloi Keots.

“While the Jaloi Keots have already received SC status, the Haloi Keots are now seeking the same recognition. Approximately 70,000 to 80,000 individuals from the Keot community in Assam are not classified as SC,” Dass noted.

He added, “The central government will review this matter, and a decision will be forthcoming. I encourage those protesting to gain a better understanding of the situation.”

The demand for SC status by the Keot community arises amid the ongoing requests from six tribal groups—Tai Ahom, Moran, Matak, Chutia, Koch-Rajbanshis, and Adivasis (tea tribes)—for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.

In June, Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram indicated that his Ministry is actively considering the request for ST status for these six communities in Assam.

Oram mentioned, “My Ministry is diligently working on the ST status issue for the six communities in Assam, but no conclusive decision has been reached yet. We are examining all facets of the matter.”

He also noted that the Registrar General of India (RGI) is assessing and providing recommendations regarding proposals for new inclusions or changes to the ST lists.

“We have received numerous recommendations and inputs from the Assam government as well,” he added.