Autonomous state demand main issue in Diphu

The demand gained momentum with the creation of Telangana and triggered widespread violence in both the districts last year.  

Majority of the tribal population, irrespective of party affiliations, have raised the demand for separate autonomous state under Article 244(A).

Article 244(A) refers to the formation of an autonomous state comprising certain tribal areas in Assam and creation of local legislature, or council of ministers, or both by law under the Sixth Schedule.

Various tribal and students' organisations along with militant groups had launched simultaneous protests for the creation of an autonomous state.

The Joint Action Committee for Autonomous State (JACAS) was formed to take the demand forward.

Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi was given an ultimatum to clarify the government's stand on the issue but he remained non-committal, saying the matter was being discussed.