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PolityGS-I· 1 min read

BJP's Growth in Assam ST Seats

Why in news?

The Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) growth in Assam has been particularly pronounced in seats reserved for Scheduled Tribes (STs), a trend observed over recent Assembly polls.

Key points

  1. BJP's growth is more significant in ST reserved seats in Assam.
  2. Assam has 126 seats, with 16 reserved for STs.
  3. STs constitute 12.4% of Assam's population (2011 Census).
  4. Prior to 2006, BJP had not won any ST seats in Assam.

Background & context

Scheduled Tribes (STs) are indigenous communities recognized by the Constitution of India. Reservation of seats in legislatures for STs is a constitutional provision aimed at ensuring representation for these communities. Assam has a significant tribal population, and electoral dynamics in the state are closely watched.

★ Prelims fact capsule

As of the 2011 Census, Scheduled Tribes (STs) accounted for 12.4% of Assam's total population.

✎ Mains relevance

GS Paper 1: Society, Indian Polity and Governance, Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections.