Moran community

Why in news?

The Moran community in Assam launched an indefinite economic blockade in Tinsukia district, demanding for Scheduled Tribe status.

• The Moran community is one of the aboriginal tribes of Assam.
• They are of Tibeto-Burman origin.
• History - In the 13^th century, they lived in the south eastern corner of the Brahmaputra valley occupying territories between the Disang and Dihing rivers.
• They had their own independent chiefdom before the advent of the Ahoms in the present day Tinsukia region.
• Due to their close relation with the Ahoms, the Morans seem to have adopted many of the Ahom rites and rituals.
• Distribution - They are mainly concentrated in the districts of Upper Assam and adjoining districts of Arunachal Pradesh.
• Religion - The community adopted Vaishnavism, following the Moamoria Sect of Neo-Vaishnavism, which was introduced to them in the 17th century by Aniruddha deva, a disciple of Sankardeva.
• Language - They speak Assamese language, used to speak Moran language, which was closely related to the Dimasa language.
• Festival - The primary festival celebrated by the Moran community is Bihu, particularly the Bohag Bihu or Rongali Bihu, a major cultural event in Assam.
• They also observe Magh Bihu, Raati Bihu and Kati Bihu.
• Demands of Moran Community - Recognition as a Scheduled Tribe status and Constitutional elevation for their Moran Autonomous Council.

​​​​​​​In March 2025, the Assam government announced its decision to issue Permanent Residence Certificates (PRCs) to members of the Moran community living in Arunachal Pradesh.

• Others demanded for ST status – Along with Moran, Tea tribes or Adivasi, Motok, Tai Ahom, Chutia, and Koch-Rajbongshi are agitating for Scheduled Tribe status.

References

1. Indian Express | Moran Community
2. Times of India | Moran Community seeks ST status