As the Assam Assembly elections approach, the tea tribes, a community of seven million voters, are becoming a focal point for political parties. They constitute nearly 20% of the electorate, and the demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status is at the forefront of the campaign. On April 5, 2026, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi pledged to provide ₹450 (approximately $5.40) as daily wages to tea workers and grant ST status to six communities, including the tea tribes. Meanwhile, the ruling BJP, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has promised to raise minimum daily wages to ₹500 (approximately $6.05) and to pursue the ST status recommendations while safeguarding existing rights. The entry of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) adds complexity, as it seeks to capitalize on unfulfilled promises regarding wages and ST status. Political analysts suggest that the tea tribes' votes may be influenced by a mix of wage increases and the ongoing struggle for ST recognition. The outcome of the elections could hinge on how well parties address these critical issues.