NEW DELHI:the picturesque region of Ladakh witnessed an extraordinary demonstration as thousands gathered in Leh to vociferously demand statehood, constitutional safeguards, protection of cultural identity, and environmental preservation for the Union Territory.
Chering Dorjay Lakrook, a prominent figure in the Leh Apex Body (LAB), reported an exceptional turnout, noting the significant participation from diverse regions, including those near the China border and Nubra Valley. The LAB, in collaboration with the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), a representative body for Buddhist-majority and Shia Muslim-dominated areas, spearheads the call for Ladakh’s statehood. Their comprehensive demands encompass inclusion in the sixth schedule of the constitution, granting tribal status, local job reservations, and the allocation of separate parliamentary seats for Leh and Kargil.
The protest saw the presence of key figures such as Thupstan Chhewang, a former member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from Ladakh, and Sonam Wangchuk, an eminent education reformer known for inspiring the Bollywood movie “3 Idiots.” Both expressed unwavering dedication to Ladakh’s cause.
Ladakh’s transition to a Union Territory on August 5, 2019, marked a significant shift, resulting from the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special constitutional position. In response to the region’s concerns, the Ministry of Home Affairs established a high-powered committee, led by Minister of State (Home) Nityanand Rai. The committee convened its inaugural meeting on December 4, 2023, with the next session scheduled for February 19. Notably, the committee has acknowledged the demand for “constitutional safeguards” for Ladakh.
Over the past four years, Ladakh has experienced intermittent shutdowns, reflecting the local apprehension of disempowerment and bureaucratic overreach. The ongoing deliberations of the high-powered committee will play a pivotal role in shaping the future trajectory of Ladakh within the constitutional framework of India. The collective voices and resolute demands of Ladakh’s residents underscore the urgency and importance of addressing their aspirations for self-governance and preservation of identity.
