WPT&BC to DCs of Assam: Compile data on 'Desi Muslims'

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: The Department of Welfare of Plain Tribes & Backward Classes (WPT&BC) has directed the DCs (Deputy Commissioners) of Assam to submit the lists of villages with population of tea & ex-tea garden, Sutradhars, and indigenous Muslims (Gorias, Morias, Deshis, Moimals, Jolhas etc) within July 31. The order also stated that if the Census data are not available then the DCs have been asked to provide the "approximate population data".

Earlier on June 9, 2021, the Department had sought the census data from the DCs on 33 communities of Assam. The data are to be found out through a survey of villages and the population of the communities in every district of the State. The DCs were also asked to prepare lists of the villages inhabited by these communities.

The 33 communities are the Kalitas; Sarania Kacharis; Gorkhas; Nath Yogis; Bishnupriya Manipuris; Manipuris; Hindi-speaking people; Bengali-speaking people; Keots; Garos; Barman Dimasa Kacharis; Suts; Tai Ahoms; Chutias; Mech Kacharis; Khasi-Jaintias; Karbis living outside Karbi Anglong; Koch Rajbongshis; Hill Tribes of Barak Valley; Morias; Gorias; Maimals; Jolhas; Sadharan Jatis; Adivasis; Singphos, Semas (Man Tai); Hajongs; Chaodangs; Kumars; Modahis; Brahmins; Marans and the Mataks.

Mentionably, that order did not mention the 'Tea & ex-tea garden communities; Sutradhars; and the Deshis. In the latest order on such communities, the Department had included the Gorias, Morias, Deshis, Moimals, Jolhas as 'indigenous Muslims'.

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