Ukhrul: In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister of Manipur, N. Biren Singh, the Assam State Unit of the World Meetei Council (WMC) has appealed for urgent action to include the Meetei community of Manipur in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) list. The letter stated the ongoing struggles of Meeteis residing in Assam and stressed that their hopes for ST status in Assam are directly linked to the recognition of Meeteis in Manipur.
The WMC pointed out that despite advocating for ST status in Assam for a long period, their efforts have been hampered by the Assam government’s insistence that such recognition depends on Manipur’s Meeteis first being granted ST status. This demand has become critical with several other communities in Assam approaching the verge of ST inclusion.
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Citing the challenges faced by Meeteis living outside Manipur, particularly the lack of political representation and economic difficulties, the WMC urged the Chief Minister to take immediate steps to protect their identity and ensure their survival in the vast population of Assam. The letter stressed the urgency of this matter, especially with the impending delimitation of constituencies in 2026, which could adversely affect Meetei representation in Manipur.
The letter further stated that the inclusion of Manipur Meeteis in the ST list would not only safeguard their future but also unlock the possibility of similar recognition for the Meeteis of Assam. The WMC hopes that this step is taken before the 2026 delimitation, as it would significantly enhance the community’s prospects both in Assam and Manipur.
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