Assam: Tea tribes hold massive protest over ST status during CM's visit in Tinsukia

Thousands of tea workers in Tinsukia, Assam, have taken to the streets today during CM Himanta Biswa Sarma’s visit, demanding tribal status, land pattas, and increased wages. Led by tea community organizations, the Assam Tea Tribes Students' Association (ATTSA) and the All Adivasi Students’ Association of Assam (AASAA), the rally aims to bring attention to the long-standing struggles of the tea community in the region.

The protesters, numbering over one lakh, are seeking recognition of their tribal status, which would grant them greater rights and benefits. Additionally, they are demanding the distribution of land pattas to landless tea worker families, ensuring their rights over the land they cultivate. A hike in daily wages is also a key demand, aimed at improving the living standards of tea workers.

The event has drawn significant attention, with authorities deploying strict security measures to ensure a peaceful protest. The tea gardens in Tinsukia district have been shut down as a mark of solidarity, and the rally is being held in front of the Tinsukia Bhavan, the residence of the Chief Minister.

As the community comes together to talk about the challenges faced by them and to demand change, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to their demands.