Guwahati, 26th September: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has reached out to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, highlighting the marginalization of ethnic Jharkhandi tea tribes in Assam despite their significant contributions to the economy. In a letter dated Wednesday, Soren expressed grave concern for the 70 lakh tea-tribe community members in Assam, emphasizing their challenges.
Soren, acknowledging Sarma’s recent criticisms of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) government, articulated his awareness of the plight of these communities. He noted that many members of the tea tribes are indigenous to Jharkhand, including groups such as the Santhali, Kuruk, Munda, and Oraon, who migrated during colonial times to work in tea plantations.
He argued that these communities meet the criteria for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status due to their distinct cultural identity, traditional lifestyles, and vulnerability to exploitation. Notably, while these ethnic groups are recognized as STs in states like Jharkhand, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha, they are classified as Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in Assam.
Soren urged Sarma to grant immediate ST status to the tea tribes, stating, “Despite their vital contributions to Assam’s economy and culture, they continue to be marginalized and denied the benefits and protections accorded to Scheduled Tribes.” This appeal underscores the need for equitable recognition and support for the tea-tribe communities in Assam.
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