Claiming that converted individuals no longer adhere to tribal customs, the JSM called for a constitutional amendment to delist them from the ST category. In an ambitious move, the Janajati Suraksha Manch (JSM) announced that it would hold a rally in Agartala, demanding the withdrawal of benefits enjoyed by Scheduled Tribe (ST) individuals who have converted to Christianity. The rally, scheduled for December 25, Christmas Day, aims to press for an amendment to the Constitution, delisting those converted individuals from the ST community.
Speaking at a press conference, Santi Bikash Chakma, the convener of JSM’s Tripura unit, emphasised the organisation’s position, stating, “We will organise a massive rally at the Swami Vivekananda Ground on December 25, demanding the delisting of converted people from ST status by amending constitutional provisions.” Chakma clarified that the JSM is not against any religion but argues that the benefits accorded to ST individuals should be reserved for those who adhere to the traditional customs and culture.
Chakma contended that Christianity did not witness substantial growth in Tripura during the British era due to conversion. He pointed out the significant rise in the number of people practising Christianity, citing statistics from the 1911 Census to 2011. According to him, the population practising Christianity increased from 138 in 1911 to 46,472 in 1991 and further to 1,59,582 in 2011.
This story was originally published in organiser.org. Read the full story here .
