Assam Education Minister Ranoj Pegu confirmed that discussions on granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to several communities in the state are progressing. He stated that the Cabinet Committee on Tribal Other Backward Classes (CCTOA) will submit its report within one month. His statement has renewed public interest in the long-standing demand for inclusion and recognition. The Assam ST status talks continue to attract attention because they affect social justice, political representation, and access to welfare schemes.
Pegu shared the update during an interaction with the media, noting that the committee has been studying the issue carefully. According to him, the committee met various community representatives and examined multiple aspects linked to legal frameworks, historical identity, and socio-economic conditions. Because these factors require detailed evaluation, the government wants the final report to be accurate and comprehensive.
Read More: Hornbill Festival 2025 Celebrates Naga Culture
He added that the state government remains committed to resolving the matter through transparent discussion and factual assessment. The Assam ST status talks, therefore, aim to balance community aspirations with constitutional guidelines. Pegu also clarified that the committee’s recommendations will guide the state’s next steps before discussions move to the Centre.
CCTOA Nears Completion of Its Evaluation
The CCTOA has been engaged in consultations for several months. Members reviewed demographic data, cultural characteristics, and community migration patterns. They also examined previous reports and recommendations submitted by expert panels. Pegu mentioned that the committee is in its final stage of analysis. As a result, he expects timely completion and submission of its report.
Community organisations, meanwhile, have urged the government to expedite the process. Many groups believe that ST status would provide access to better educational facilities, job reservations, and development schemes. They also stated that official recognition would help preserve cultural identity. Because of these expectations, the Assam ST status talks remained a sensitive and important issue across several districts.
Officials noted that the report will outline the committee’s findings along with its proposed recommendations. These suggestions will help the government understand community demands more clearly. Furthermore, they will guide administrative decisions and future legislative steps. Once submitted, the report will undergo review at multiple levels before a final decision is taken.
Government Stresses Balanced and Lawful Approach
Pegu emphasised that the state must follow constitutional procedures while considering any change in the ST list. He explained that such decisions require evidence-based justification and coordination with the central government. Therefore, the Assam ST status talks focus on both accuracy and legal compliance. This approach aims to avoid confusion and ensure fairness to all communities involved.
He also urged the public to maintain patience while the process unfolds. According to Pegu, the government recognises the importance of the issue and intends to move forward responsibly. He said unnecessary speculation could create misunderstanding. Instead, he encouraged community leaders to support constructive dialogue and cooperate with the committee’s work.
The government maintains that the goal is to promote harmony and avoid conflict between groups with overlapping claims. Officials explained that any decision must respect the interests of all communities. Because of this, the committee carefully studied each representation to avoid future disputes.
Communities Await Next Phase of Assam ST Status Talks
Leaders of several organisations welcomed the minister’s update. They said the committee’s deadline offers clarity after months of uncertainty. Many noted that a structured timeline builds confidence in the process. They also hope the report will highlight the unique social and cultural features of their communities.
Residents in different districts expressed optimism as well. They believe that official recognition can open new opportunities for education, employment, and welfare support. However, they also stressed the need for peaceful discussions and unity among communities.
As the Assam ST status talks move into their next phase, the upcoming report will play a crucial role in shaping the state’s decisions. With the committee nearing completion and the government emphasising transparency, the process appears set for steady progress. The next month, therefore, may mark an important turning point in Assam’s ongoing debate over tribal recognition.
Read More: Steamed Amla Benefits: Why One Daily Boosts Health