Dibrugarh: Even as Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expanded his cabinet with the swearing-in of 12 new ministers in Guwahati on Friday, widespread protests erupted in Tinsukia and Dibrugarh districts. Organizations representing the Moran and Motok communities enforced a 48-hour bandh, alleging that their communities were once again overlooked in the cabinet expansion.
Impact of the Bandh
The bandh, which began at 5 am, had a complete effect in Tinsukia district. Vehicular movement came to a standstill, shops and business establishments remained closed, and life was severely disrupted. In Dibrugarh, however, the bandh did not have a similar impact, with most shops and establishments remaining open and traffic largely continuing as normal.
Protests and Allegations
Protesters were seen burning tyres at several locations in both districts and raising slogans against the government. The organizations alleged that the government led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma failed to honor its commitments to the two indigenous communities and once again overlooked them in the cabinet expansion.
All Moran Students’ Union (AMSU) president Palindra Borah expressed disappointment, stating, “The state government led by Himanta Biswa Sarma is expanding the cabinet. Once again, the Moran and Motok communities have been ignored, as not a single MLA from either community has been inducted into the cabinet. Several promises were made to our people before the elections, but those commitments remain unfulfilled.” He added, “In protest against this continued neglect, we have called a 48-hour bandh in Tinsukia and Dibrugarh districts.”
Demand for Scheduled Tribe Status
Borah further pressed the government on the long-standing demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. “We have been demanding ST status for many years, but the demand remains unfulfilled. The government has repeatedly raised hopes without delivering on its promises,” he said.
Community leaders warned that the agitation would be intensified if their demands were not addressed. The 48-hour bandh is set to continue through Saturday.
