Guwahati: Rabha organizations rallied at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Monday, August 10. They demand the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC) area gain Sixth Schedule status. The protest ran from 11 am to 1 pm. It involved the All Rabha Students' Union, Rabha Mahila Parishad, and the Sixth Schedule Demand Committee. They also coordinated with the Rabha Hasong Joint Struggle Committee.
Protesters submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The document cites the 1993 movement and the 1995 Rabha Accord. These created the council to guard tribal language, culture, and interests. The RHAC spans 779 revenue villages across Goalpara and Kamrup districts in Assam. Council elections started in 2013, but local leaders argue that administrative and financial powers remain toothless without constitutional protection.
The groups highlight risks from demographic shifts and migration. They point to a February 2024 assurance from the Assam government. A tripartite meeting in New Delhi on December 25, 2025, also promised an interlocutor to lead talks. The Centre missed its January 2026 deadline for that appointment. RHAC Chief Executive Member and Dudhnoi MLA Tankeswar Rabha says Goalpara acts as a gateway for illegal migration from Bangladesh. He claims stronger safeguards are vital.
Rabha told the crowd, "The inclusion of the council area under the Sixth Schedule was necessary to address concerns over illegal migration and protect the interests of indigenous communities."
Rabha confirmed the group will protest at Jantar Mantar every three months until they see progress. Representatives from the Bodo, Garo, Hajong, Tea Tribes, Gorkha, and Kalita communities joined the demonstration. Key figures in attendance included Motilal Rabha, Dr. Subhash Rabha, Raju Mech, Tankeswar Rabha, and Pabitra Rabha.
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