Massive Protest in Makum by Moran Student Union Over Demand for Tribal Status

Guwahati:In a significant display of unrest, the All Assam Moran Student Union organized a large-scale protest in Makum, Assam, to demand Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the Moran, Motok, and six other ethnic communities. The protest, which took place in response to comments by Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Jual Oram, underscored the growing frustration among the Moran community over the government’s failure to act on their longstanding demand.The protestors, who blocked National Highway 37 in Makum, expressed their anger at the central government’s inaction. The situation escalated as demonstrators burnt effigies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Minister Jual Oram, and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, venting their discontent over the lack of progress in granting ST status to the communities in question.Tensions heightened when clashes broke out between the protesters and the police, resulting in injuries. The All Assam Moran Student Union, along with local organizations, has been vocal about the need for tribal recognition, citing cultural and historical reasons to justify their claim for ST status.For years, the Moran and Motok communities have advocated for recognition, arguing that their contributions to Assam’s culture and history, along with their marginalized status, make them deserving of the benefits that come with ST categorization. The delay in addressing their demands has led to a growing sense of alienation and discrimination, fueling the protests.The latest demonstration in Makum reflects the intense frustration of these communities, who have been pushing for ST status for several years without receiving a clear response from the authorities. The protests are likely to continue until the community’s demands are acknowledged and addressed by both state and central governments.