Timeline of the ST Demand in Assam 1. Early Demands (1960s–1980s) The demand for ST status began informally in the 1960s and 70s, especially among the Ahom, Moran, Matak, and Chutia communities. These groups argued that they are original indigenous tribes of Assam who were “Hinduised” or “assimilated” over time, losing their tribal recognition under British and post-independence classifications. 2. Organized Movements (1990s) By the 1990s, separate organizations were formed: All Tai Ahom Students’ Union (#atasu ) All Moran Students’ Union (#amsu ) All Matak Students’ Union (#aamsu ) All Chutia Students’ Union (#acsu ) All Koch Rajbongshi Students’ Union (#akrsu) Adivasi Students’ Association of Assam (#asa) for Tea Tribes. They began coordinated agitations demanding inclusion in the Scheduled Tribe (Plains) category. 3. Political Recognition (2001–2005) The issue became politically active during the Tarun Gogoi-led Congress government (early 2000s). A Group of Ministers ...