Published Paper Details:

Abstract With an emphasis on the Udalguri district, this study investigates the political engagement, awareness, and perspective of the Tea Tribes s community in the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) elections within the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR). One of the most disadvantaged groups in the area is the Tea Tribes, who were first brought to Assam as plantation labourers. One hundred fifty Tea Tribes voters participated in field surveys to gather primary data for the study, which uses a mixed-method approach to incorporate qualitative and quantitative data. The main tool for collecting data was an interview schedule. According to the findings, the percentage of votes cast by Tea Tribes s voters may seem high, but it does not represent meaningful or educated political engagement. Low levels of political awareness and varying perceptions of political engagement indicate that participation is often symbolic rather than substantive. In an area where their identity has long been disputed, some people view voting as a way to establish their citizenship. Participation is a calculated move to assert rights and representation for a community that is more politically unaware. The study highlights the necessity of focused political education and inclusion initiatives to guarantee that Tea Tribes democratic participation is meaningful and well-informed.