Guwahati: More than two lakh Adivasis from Assam, the Northeast and other parts of the country converged at Bargolai in Assam’s Tinsukia district on Sunday, February 1, as the 21st Adivasi Mahasabha concluded with a massive open public meeting. The gathering emerged as one of the largest tribal congregations witnessed in the region in recent years.
The four-day Mahasabha culminated at the Dehing-Patkai Sports Project Playground under the 83 Margherita Legislative Assembly Constituency, drawing an unprecedented turnout and placing long-standing demands of the Adivasi community firmly in the spotlight.
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, who attended the open session as the chief guest, launched a sharp critique of the central government, describing it as a “trader government.” He alleged that despite being the backbone of Assam’s tea industry and a key contributor to the state’s economy, the Adivasi community continues to be denied its basic rights.
Flagging concerns such as land alienation, limited access to education and lack of adequate political recognition, Soren stressed that sustained collective struggle was essential to achieving justice. “If the struggle continues, rights will surely be secured,” he said, urging the community to remain united and determined.
The concluding session began with a welcome address by Rana Jyoti Neog, President of the Reception Committee. Leaders of the All Adivasi Students’ Association of Assam (AASAA) also addressed the gathering, with central executive committee president Rejan Hor and general secretary Deben Uraon calling for greater unity and a stronger movement to protect Adivasi rights.
Several senior leaders from Jharkhand, including Cabinet Minister Chamra Linda, Rajya Sabha MP Bijay Kumar Hasda and MLA M T Raju, attended the Mahasabha, highlighting the platform’s growing political relevance.
Beyond political deliberations, the final day featured vibrant cultural celebrations, with traditional dances, folk songs and performances reflecting Adivasi heritage and identity.
The 21st Adivasi Mahasabha once again brought the concerns of the Adivasi community into the national discourse, sending a strong message on identity, rights and representation from the heart of Assam.