Protests in Assam demanding Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the Koch-Rajbongshi community turned violent in Golakganj after police baton-charged student demonstrators. The clash left several people injured, including women.

Who led the protest

The protest was led by the All Koch-Rajbongshi Students' Union (AKRSU), which had organised a torchlight march from Chilarai College to Golakganj Bazaar on Wednesday night. When police and paramilitary forces tried to stop the march, a confrontation broke out. The crackdown triggered anger across the region, and on Thursday a 12-hour bandh was called in Dhubri district, which brought normal life to a halt. Shops remained closed, and roads wore a deserted look as the bandh was observed.

The incident quickly drew political reactions. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi strongly criticised the police action, calling it a “brutal assault” on students. He accused the Assam government of ignoring the demands of indigenous communities and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to fulfil the BJP’s promise of granting ST status to the Koch-Rajbongshi community. Gogoi also demanded that Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma be removed from the Home Department, holding him accountable for the violence.

Facing criticism, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma called the police action “deeply saddening” and announced a probe into the matter. He also confirmed the suspension of the Officer-in-Charge of Golakganj police station and assured that strict action would be taken against any officer found guilty of using “excessive force.” Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah was sent to Dhubri to meet the injured students and speak with community leaders.

Why the protest taking place

The demand for ST status by the Koch-Rajbongshi community is decades old. Alongside them, five other groups, Tai-Ahom, Chutia, Matak, Moran, and Tea Tribes, have also been pressing for inclusion in the ST list. The AKRSU has further renewed its demand for a separate ‘Kamatapur’ state. Political parties, including the BJP, had promised ST status during elections, but nothing has been implemented yet. 

This delay and unfulfilled promise have created frustration, especially among the youth. To express their anger and remind the government of its commitments, the All Koch-Rajbongshi Students' Union (AKRSU) organised a torchlight march, which later turned violent when the police tried to stop it. The main reason behind the protest is the community’s struggle for recognition, equality, and opportunities through the benefits that come with ST status.