06/09/2025
BJSM Terms BTC Election “Unconstitutional,” Demands Fresh Polls in ST-Reserved Constituencies Contested by Non-ST Candidates
Kokrajhar, Sept 6: The Bodoland Janajati Suraksha Manch (BJSM) has strongly condemned the acceptance of non-Scheduled Tribe (non-ST) candidates in constituencies reserved for Scheduled Tribes (ST) in the forthcoming Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) elections slated for September 22, 2025.
Calling the move “illegal, unconstitutional, and against the spirit of tribal reservation,” BJSM expressed deep sorrow and anguish over what it termed a blatant violation of tribal rights and constitutional safeguards.
BJSM pointed out that despite objections, Returning Officers in multiple districts allowed several non-ST candidates to contest in ST-reserved constituencies, including:
1. Sajan Das – 21 (ST), Assam Jatiya Party.
2. Sanjay Kr. Sarania – 22 (ST), Independent
3. Jagadish Madahi – 22 (ST), Congress
4. Sashidhar Deka – 32 (ST), GSP
5. Hiren Sarania – 5 (ST), Independent
6. Trishna Medhi – 25 (ST)
7. Ramen Madahi – 22 (ST), BJP
8. Kandarpa Das – 25 (ST), Congres.
9. Narayan Das – 25 (ST), Independent
10. Manmohan Madahi – 22 (ST), Independent
11. Chittaranjan Bhorbhora – 36 (ST)
12. Mridul Kr. Das – 11 (ST)
13. Rideep Kumar Deka, 24 (ST) BJP
BJSM stated that surnames like Das, Deka, Medhi, belonging to the Sarania community, are not listed as Scheduled Tribes, and the Gauhati High Court (PIL No. 30/2019) has already directed the government not to issue ST certificates to such communities under false pretexts.
Accusations Against Government & Officials
BJSM held Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma directly responsible for this “violation,” accusing him of encouraging BJP candidates to contest in ST seats despite constitutional safeguards.
BJSM has demanded: Immediate cancellation of BTC polls in constituencies where non-ST candidates were allowed. Fresh elections ensuring only genuine ST candidates can contest in ST-reserved constituencies.
BJSM warned of statewide protests and legal action to secure justice for tribal people.