As it was a purely administrative position, the title holder could belong to diverse ethnic groups or religions.
The appointment of a Saikia was the responsibility of a Phukan or Rajkhowa (governor of a territory).
Among other ethnic groups, there is mention of Chutia Saikias in several instances of Buranjis.
For instance, during the revolt of 1775, ten Chutia Saikias were involved along with a Nara chief of Khamjang (Kachin state of Myanmar).
The Ahom paik titles were conferred by the king regardless of the ethnicity, caste or religion of the officer.