JMM Pushes for ST Status for Jharkhand Tea Tribes in Assam

The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has intensified efforts to secure Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for tea tribes of Jharkhand origin in states like Assam. The JMM government has formed a special committee to conduct a social and economic survey of these communities, addressing issues like housing and employment.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren emphasized the historical migration of these tribals to Assam by the British and their current struggle for rights. Despite contributing significantly to Assam’s tea industry, they are classified as OBC and remain excluded from welfare schemes.

Soren’s push follows his September 25 appeal to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, urging ST status for the tea tribes. This move comes ahead of Jharkhand’s Assembly elections, potentially fueling tensions between JMM and BJP.