The demand for inclusion of Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC) areas under the Sixth Schedule gained new momentum on Monday, November 3. As the Kamrup District Rabha Students’ Union (KDRSU) raised concerns over the pending tripartite talks. The statement came during a symbolic foundation ceremony at Milaghat playground in Bamunigaon. Although, under the Boko-Chaygaon constituency, where the groundwork for an upcoming joint session was laid.
Leaders of the KDRSU, along with the Rabha Mahila Parishad and the Sixth Schedule Demand Committee. Further, came together to mark the beginning of preparations for their two-day joint session scheduled for December 20 and 21. The event aims to intensify the long-standing demand for full inclusion of RHAC. Under the constitutional provisions of the Sixth Schedule.
Symbolic Foundation Marks Renewed Struggle
The foundation post erected at Milaghat playground was not just ceremonial but symbolic of the Rabha community’s enduring aspiration for greater autonomy and recognition. The gathering witnessed speeches from student leaders and community representatives. Who highlighted the repeated delays in initiating the promised tripartite talks among the Centre, the Assam government, and the Rabha leadership.
According to the Kamrup District Rabha Students’ Union, despite several assurances. Moreover, the government has yet to initiate meaningful dialogue regarding the inclusion of the Rabha Hasong areas under the Sixth Schedule. The union expressed disappointment, stating that the lack of progress continues to hinder the socio-political. And, cultural empowerment of the Rabha people.
Leaders emphasized that the upcoming joint session will serve as a strategic platform to review the current situation. Although, discuss constitutional pathways, and plan future mass movements if the talks remain stagnant.
Sixth Schedule Inclusion: A Decades-Long Demand
The demand for Sixth Schedule inclusion has been one of the core issues for the Rabha community. Particularly those residing within the RHAC area covering Kamrup and Goalpara districts. The community has long argued that inclusion under the Sixth Schedule would provide them constitutional protection.Also, autonomy in governance, and preservation of their language, culture, and land rights.
Student leaders reminded that while several other tribal councils in Assam enjoy Sixth Schedule status, the Rabhas continue to remain outside this constitutional safeguard despite their historical and ethnic significance.
“We have waited patiently, believing in the promises made by successive governments,” said one KDRSU leader during the event. “But now, we demand action, not assurances. Our identity, culture, and future depend on this inclusion.”
Preparations Underway for December Joint Session
The upcoming two-day joint session in December is expected to bring together delegates from different Rabha-dominated regions, women’s groups, and youth organizations. The event will focus on reviewing past negotiations, strengthening organizational unity, and formulating a comprehensive action plan to push the Sixth Schedule demand forward.
Organizers have confirmed that discussions will also include topics such as education, employment, and land security within the RHAC areas. The Rabha Mahila Parishad has expressed plans to present resolutions on women’s participation in governance and socio-economic empowerment. Thereafter, while the Sixth Schedule Demand Committee will propose strategies to seek formal government engagement on the issue.
Local residents in Bamunigaon have welcomed the initiative. Also, noting that such gatherings play a vital role in uniting the community and amplifying their collective voice.
Community Frustration Over Government Inaction
While the symbolic foundation ceremony was marked by enthusiasm, the underlying sentiment was one of frustration. Many speakers pointed out that despite multiple representations and appeals, no concrete steps have been taken to convene the tripartite talks between the central government, the state, and the Rabha organizations.
The Kamrup District Rabha Students’ Union reiterated that the community’s patience is running out. They warned that if the government fails to take prompt action, the organizations may resort to stronger democratic movements to press for their constitutional rights.
The student body emphasized that inclusion under the Sixth Schedule is not merely a political demand but a necessity for administrative justice and preservation of the indigenous identity of the Rabha people.
A Call for Unity and Collective Action
As the Rabha organizations gear up for the December session, leaders have urged all community members youth, elders. And, women to stand united in their pursuit of constitutional recognition. The upcoming joint meeting in Bamunigaon is expected to serve as a turning point in their movement. Aiming to renew dialogue with the government and ensure that the Rabha voice is heard at the national level.
Observers believe that this renewed mobilization could influence regional politics, especially in Kamrup and Goalpara districts, where the Rabha population plays a key role in socio-political affairs.
The KDRSU also appealed to allied organizations and sympathetic groups across Assam to support their cause for justice, equality, and representation. “Our struggle is not against anyone,” said a student leader. “It is a call for rightful inclusion within India’s constitutional framework.”
Looking Ahead
The foundation ceremony at Milaghat marks more than the start of an event it represents a reawakening of the Rabha community’s movement for autonomy and dignity. With the joint session approaching, expectations are high that the discussions will lead to renewed pressure on both the state. And, central governments to finally begin the long-awaited tripartite talks on RHAC inclusion.
For now, the Rabhas of Assam are preparing to make their voices louder, their demands clearer, and their unity stronger.
