Morigaon, Assam – Police lathi-charged All Tiwa Students’ Union (ATSU) protesters on Monday in Jagiroad, Morigaon district. Several individuals, including police personnel and protesters, sustained injuries. Protesters blocked National Highway-27 to press for various demands concerning the Tiwa community.
The ATSU organized the demonstration, disrupting traffic on the critical highway that connects Upper Assam with Guwahati. Protesters demand the inclusion of Tiwa council areas under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. They also seek specific employment and educational reforms for the Tiwa community.
Key Demands of Tiwa Protesters
- Inclusion of the Tiwa Autonomous Council under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
- Eviction of illegal encroachers from tribal belts and blocks.
- Employment for educated Tiwa youths at the Tata semiconductor unit.
- Conducting a special Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) examination for appointing Tiwa language teachers.
- Official recognition of the community as ‘Tiwa’ instead of ‘Lalung’ in the Constitution’s tribal list.
Police Intervention and Injuries
A senior police officer confirmed that agitators blocked National Highway-27 for an extended period. The highway serves as a vital link. Prolonged blockage causes significant traffic disruptions for commuters.
Police personnel requested protesters to clear the roadway. A scuffle began when officers attempted to open the highway. Police then used a lathi-charge to control the crowd. One sub-inspector received injuries during the scuffle. Some protesters also suffered minor injuries. All injured individuals received medical attention. The situation is now under control, the officer stated.
ATSU Warns of Intensified Agitation
ATSU General Secretary Tarun Madar criticized the state and central governments. Madar stated that the BJP-led administrations showed an “apathetic attitude” towards resolving basic Tiwa problems. He warned of an intensified agitation from January if demands remain unfulfilled. The union is committed to ensuring the government addresses their concerns.