Assam: The All Tiwa Students’ Union (ATSU) has declared a series of agitational programs, accusing the Assam government of neglecting the Tiwa community and other indigenous groups in Central Assam.

At a press conference on Wednesday, ATSU President Cheniram Malang stated that the organization has been fighting for the rights of the Tiwa people for over three decades, demanding constitutional status for the Tiwa autonomous council under the 6th Schedule of the Indian Constitution.

Malang highlighted various grievances, including:

– No reserved Assembly seats for the Tiwa community since 1977

– Declining annual fund allocation for the Tiwa Council

– Inadequate funding compared to other councils

– Unfulfilled promises, including land allocation for Jonbeel Mela

– Construction of a BJP party office at the historic fair venue

ATSU General Secretary Biman Pratim Masreng announced a three-hour sit-in protest on July 19 in Morigaon town, followed by a “day of betrayal” protest on August 27. If demands are not met, the union will escalate to highway blockades, railway blockades, economic blockades, and a Central Assam bandh.

The union has called upon all ethnic groups in Central Assam to join the protests, demanding justice and equality for the Tiwa community.

This development reflects the ongoing tensions between the Assam government and indigenous communities, highlighting issues of neglect, deprivation, and unfulfilled promises.