Hemant Soren Calls for Unity and Rights of Adivasi Community at Awareness Rally in Assam

March 2026 : Chief Minister Hemant Soren addressed a large awareness gathering organized by the Adivasi Students’ Union of Assam, the Adivasi Shakti Organization, and the Adivasi Council of Assam at the Medizikajan Tea Garden near Biswanath Chariali in Assam. The event brought together members of the Adivasi community from various parts of the region to discuss their rights, identity, and future.

Addressing the gathering, Hemant Soren emphasized that the Adivasi community living in Assam has been an inseparable part of the country’s tea industry for centuries. He said that the tea industry thrives largely because of the hard work and dedication of Adivasi workers who have contributed immensely to its growth and success. However, despite their contribution, many members of the community continue to face challenges related to wages, rights, and recognition.

The Chief Minister said he has long heard about the struggles of marginalized communities in Assam, including the poor, farmers, Adivasis, Dalits, backward classes, and minorities. According to him, these communities have faced various forms of exploitation and social challenges over many decades. He acknowledged that the people present at the gathering have witnessed numerous political and social changes in the region but continue to strive for dignity and justice.

During his address, Soren also paid tribute to revolutionary leader Pradeep Nag, who sacrificed his life while fighting for the rights of the Adivasi community. He said the struggle for justice and recognition for Adivasis has often required great sacrifice from courageous leaders and ordinary people alike.

Drawing parallels with the history of Jharkhand, Soren recalled the long struggle for the creation of a separate state. He said the movement was driven by the desire to protect “jal, jungle, zameen” (water, forests, and land) and to safeguard the identity and rights of the tribal population. After decades of struggle that lasted nearly fifty years, the demand eventually led to the formation of Jharkhand as a separate state.

He remembered the contributions of legendary tribal leader Shibu Soren, who played a pivotal role in the movement. According to Hemant Soren, many revolutionary leaders and countless ordinary people made sacrifices during that struggle. Numerous lives were lost, families suffered immense hardship, and many activists were imprisoned. Despite these challenges, the movement continued until the dream of a separate state became reality.

The Chief Minister also mentioned the words of late leader Shashi Nath Mahato, who had once warned that the fight for justice would be a long and difficult one. Mahato had predicted that those in the first line of the struggle might lose their lives, those in the second line might go to prison, and only the third generation might get the opportunity to build and shape the future of the state. Soren said history had proven those words to be true.

Reflecting on the years following the formation of Jharkhand, the Chief Minister acknowledged that despite achieving statehood, the tribal community still faces economic, social, and educational challenges. He said his government is committed to ensuring that Adivasi people receive their rightful share of opportunities and benefits so they can become stronger economically and socially.

Turning his attention back to Assam, Hemant Soren urged members of the Adivasi community to remain united and organized. He stressed that unity is essential for protecting their identity, culture, and constitutional rights. According to him, a collective effort is required to bring about meaningful change and ensure that the community receives the recognition and respect it deserves.

He also expressed concern that despite living in Assam for thousands of years, many members of the Adivasi community are still struggling for proper recognition and rights. He described this situation as unfortunate and said it highlights the need for sustained efforts and awareness among the community.

Soren further noted that Adivasi society has historically been peaceful and respectful of others. He said exploitation or harming others has never been part of their culture. However, he stressed that the community must now be aware of its constitutional rights and be prepared to fight legal and democratic battles to secure those rights.

He warned that certain forces within the country attempt to weaken tribal communities economically, socially, and intellectually. According to him, efforts are often made to keep them confined to the role of laborers rather than enabling them to progress. Soren urged people to remain alert to such challenges and work collectively to strengthen their position.

The Chief Minister concluded by highlighting the natural beauty and potential of Assam. He said the state possesses immense opportunities, particularly in the tourism sector, and emphasized that inclusive development and empowerment of local communities would be key to realizing its full potential.

The awareness gathering ended with a call for solidarity among Adivasis and other marginalized communities across the country to work together for justice, equality, and dignity.