All Assam Matak Yuva Chatra Sanmilan calls for 48 hour economic blockade

A 48-hour economic blockade across the state on July 18 and 19 has been announced by a student body of Assam namely, All Assam Matak Yuva Chatra Sanmilan, as a mark of protest against the delay in granting Schedule Tribe (ST) status to six indigenous communities of the state.

The six communities that have been demanding the ST status are – Tai Ahoms, Morans, Mataks, Sutias, Koch Rajbonshis and the Adivasis.

The Sanmilan President David Chetia has expressed deep anguish at the delay in fulfilling the promise made by the governments at Centre and Assam. Chetia alleged that the government has “betrayed” them.

Chetia added that they are planning a series of agitations and their movement will only intensify with the delay made by the government.

On being asked about the student body’s role in the upcoming Panchayat elections of Assam, Chetia said that although the Sanmilan is not a political party, if the Government fails to keep its promises made before elections, the movements will only intensify.

"We will also organize bike rallies and village meetings from August 8 to 18 and observe a black day on August 15. There will be an airport blockade on September 8 and a " nagarik sabha" will be held in Guwahati on October 27, coinciding with our foundation day," Chetia said.

During 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Narendra Modi had promised Scheduled Tribe status to these six communities of Assam.