TAYPA Leads Torch Rally in Moran, Reaffirms Demand for ST Status and Autonomy

A sea of torchlights illuminated the streets of Moran on Monday evening, November 3. As thousands of members of the Tai Ahom Yuba Parishad, Assam (TAYPA). And their supporters marched in unison. The rally, which spanned several kilometers, echoed with slogans demanding Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. And autonomous governance for the Tai Ahom community.

The protest, organized amid rising political activity in Upper Assam. Showcased the community’s growing impatience with what they described as decades of unfulfilled promises. TAYPA leaders reaffirmed that their movement will continue until the Central government takes concrete steps toward granting ST recognition to the Tai Ahoms. One of the most influential indigenous groups in Assam’s history.

Torch Rally Symbolizes Unity and Persistence

The rally began at Moran Town Field and wound through the main market area before concluding with a public address near the Moran College ground. Carrying flaming torches, placards, and banners. Participants shouted slogans such as “No ST, No Vote” and “Justice for Tai Ahoms.”

Local residents, business owners, and students gathered along the roads to watch the demonstration. Although, many expressing solidarity with the movement. The atmosphere was charged but peaceful, marked by strong emotional appeals for recognition, equality, and preservation of Tai Ahom identity.

TAYPA’s Moran regional committee president, while addressing the gathering,. And, said the torch rally was “a message to both the state and central governments that the Tai Ahom community will no longer remain silent spectators.”

Leaders Accuse Governments of Political Delay

During the rally, TAYPA’s central leadership criticized successive governments for delaying the inclusion of the Tai Ahom community. In the list of Scheduled Tribes under the Constitution. They alleged that political assurances made before elections often remain unfulfilled once parties come to power.

Speakers reminded the crowd that despite forming multiple committees and expert panels over the years, no tangible progress has been made. They argued that the community has fulfilled every eligibility criterion for ST recognition and that further delay amounts to “institutional injustice.”

One of the leaders warned that if the government fails to act soon, TAYPA will intensify its protests across Assam, including sit-ins and road blockades. “We have waited too long. The time for promises is over we now demand action,” he declared, to loud cheers from the crowd.

Autonomous Governance Demand Gains Momentum

Alongside the ST status demand, TAYPA reiterated its call for an autonomous council for the Tai Ahom community. The organization believes that autonomy will allow greater self-governance, cultural preservation, and economic development in Tai Ahom-majority regions.

Leaders claimed that the absence of administrative autonomy has hindered community welfare and development programs. They called on the Assam government to create a roadmap for an autonomous body similar to other ethnic councils in the state, emphasizing that equal treatment is a constitutional right, not a privilege.

The rally also drew participation from several socio-cultural organizations, who extended their support to TAYPA’s twin demands.

Strong Message to Political Parties

The “No ST, No Vote” slogan was prominently displayed throughout the rally, signaling TAYPA’s intention to make ST status a decisive electoral issue ahead of the 2026 Assam Assembly elections. Leaders made it clear that the community would support only those political parties that take a firm stand on their long-pending demand.

Several speakers criticized what they termed as “vote bank politics,” accusing both state and central leaders of using the Tai Ahom issue as a campaign tool. They urged the youth to stay united and resist being divided by political propaganda.

Political analysts note that such mass movements could have a significant impact in Upper Assam, where Tai Ahoms constitute a large and influential segment of the electorate.

Public Sentiment and Cultural Pride

The rally also became a platform for expressing cultural pride. Traditional Tai Ahom flags, attire, and chants filled the air, blending political assertion with a celebration of heritage. Participants said their movement is not just about reservation benefits but about recognition, identity, and dignity.

Many young participants, including students and professionals, joined the protest, saying they were inspired by the idea of reclaiming their rightful place in Assam’s socio-political landscape.

“We are proud descendants of the Ahom dynasty that ruled Assam for centuries. Yet today, our identity is neglected,” said a university student who joined the march. “This rally is a wake-up call.”

TAYPA Plans Statewide Agitation

Concluding the rally, TAYPA’s central committee announced a series of future programs, including district-level meetings and statewide marches. Moreover, to keep the momentum alive. The organization vowed to take its movement to Guwahati and New Delhi if necessary.

The leaders also urged the youth to engage actively in awareness campaigns. And use social media platforms to highlight the community’s historical and cultural significance.

They called upon the government to take immediate action before the situation escalates further. “Our demand is simple recognition, respect, and rightful inclusion. The ball is now in the government’s court,” said one of the senior TAYPA members.

As the torches faded into the night, Moran witnessed yet another powerful reminder of a community’s resilience and determination. The Tai Ahoms have once again made it clear that their demand for ST status and autonomy will not be silenced.