Thousands in Boko Stage Massive Torch Rally Demanding Sixth Schedule Status for Rabha Hasong

BOKO: For over two decades, going all the way back to 2003, the Rabha people have been fighting tirelessly to get their self-governing body, the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC), fully recognized under the Indian Constitution’s Sixth Schedule.

They feel the government has simply ignored this critical, long-standing issue. So, this past Saturday evening in Boko, they decided enough was enough. Thousands of Rabha residents poured into the streets, carrying torches in a powerful rally to show their frustration and demand action now.

The event was a massive joint effort, brought together by the Kamrup District Rabha Students’ Union, the Kamrup District Women’s Council, and the Sixth Schedule Demand Committee

Key Highlights of the Rally

• Route: Carrying torches, marchers proceeded from the Gandhi Maidan through Boko Primary Health Centre and Boko Police Station before culminating their protest near the Boko Regional Rabha Students’ Union office.
• Participants: Attendees included men and women from several villages across Kamrup district, including ten regional units of the Rabha Students’ Union.
• Slogans: Protesters raised slogans such as “Asam Government Hai Hai”, “Assam Government Liar”, and “Sixth Schedule is our rightful demand”.

Future Plans and Government Allegations

Expressing strong resentment, the Sixth Schedule Demand Committee president, Dashanan Rabha, alleged that the government has deceived the Rabha people with false promises. He warned that if the demand is not fulfilled before the forthcoming Assembly elections, the Rabha organizations will intensify their agitation.

The organizations are preparing to field their own candidates in the Rabha Hasong region, ready to contest in four Assembly constituencies located within Rabha Hasong and other Rabha-dominated areas.

Upcoming Protest: The organizations, led by Rabha leaders, have staged parallel protests in Kamrup and Goalpara districts for the past two months and will hold a dharna at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on December 12 to press for the demand

The organizations remain resolute, declaring, “The All Rabha Students’ Union, All Rabha Women’s Council and the Sixth Schedule Demand Committee have decided to continue their struggle until the RHAC is included under the Sixth Schedule.”