BJP’s rapid rise in Assam is more pronounced in ST seats
The BJP has significantly increased its vote share in Scheduled Tribe (ST) seats in Assam over recent elections. The upcoming 2026 elections will be crucial in determining whether the BJP can maintain its dominance or if the Congress will make a comeback. Additionally, the demand for ST status among several communities in Assam is growing, which could impact the election results.
- ▪BJP's vote share in ST seats rose from 7.1% in 2011 to 54.4% in 2021.
- ▪The 2026 elections will test the BJP's hold on ST seats against a resurgent Congress.
- ▪There is increasing demand for ST status among six communities that make up about 30% of Assam's population.
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Moreover, the vote share of the BJP in ST seats has seen a steep rise from a meagre 7.1% in 2011 to 41.7% in 2016 and a whopping 54.4% in 2021.Fight for ST statusThe 2026 results will reveal if the BJP will retain its stronghold in the ST seats or concede ground to the Congress that is desperately trying for a comeback in the State.Interestingly, the demand for ST status to six communities, including the Tai Ahoms, the Adivasi ‘tea tribes’, Chutia, Koch-Rajbanshi, Matak, and Moran, who together account for roughly 30% of the State’s population is getting louder, a demand that the winning party has to reckon with. Assam town rides BJP’s development showcaseDuring the BJP’s 2014 Lok Sabha campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised that ST status will be granted to these communities.
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