Koch Rajbongshis

Assam Cabinet’s Decision: Assam government withdraws ~28,000 pending Foreigner Tribunal cases against Koch Rajbongshi community members.

Reasoning: State government considers them an “indigenous community.”

Koch Rajbongshi Identity: Traced to the Koch Dynasty of the Kamata Kingdom (16th century). Spread across Assam, West Bengal, and parts of neighboring countries.

Geographic Concentration: Significant presence in western Assam districts. Kamatapur Autonomous Council created in 2020 for their advancement.

Demands: While having OBC status, they seek Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Some groups, especially in West Bengal, advocate for a separate Kamatapur state.

Citizenship Issues (“D-voter” Tag): Transborder nature led to many being labeled “D-voters,” questioning their citizenship due to the 1985 Assam Accord.

Controversies/Questions: Selective withdrawal raises questions about similar relief for other communities, especially indigenous Assamese Muslim sub-groups. Concerns raised that figures may be inflated for political gain with upcoming elections.

Similar instances:The Assam Cabinet had similarly announced the withdrawal of cases against members of the Gorkha community.

Political significance: Communities are expected to build pressure on the state government as the 2026 Assam Legislative Assembly election draws closer.