Ladakh leaders, MHA resume dialogue to address UT’s long-standing demands

New Delhi, Oct 22: After several months of a freeze in communication, dialogue between the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and representatives from Ladakh Union Territory resumed on Wednesday.
The discussions focused on four specific demands, including statehood for Ladakh, inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, implementation of reservation measures, and the removal of the National Security Act (NSA) imposed on climate activist Sonam Wangchuk.
The talks lasted close to two hours and included a nine-member delegation comprising leaders from the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), along with Ladakh’s Member of Parliament Mohd Haneefa Jan.
This meeting marked a renewed effort to find common ground after recent unrest in Leh and long-standing demands from the region’s civil groups.
According to members present at the meeting, discussions were held on each point raised. On statehood and the Sixth Schedule, the delegation explained that Ladakh required greater control over its resources, land, and administrative mechanisms.
They also pointed to the need for stronger constitutional tools to protect employment and cultural practices. Reservation policies for local communities formed another part of the agenda.
Official sources said that the MHA is expected to examine various options and conduct follow-up discussions to shape a policy that includes representation across different social groups in the region.
Member of the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), Sajjad Hussain Kargili, said their demand for the past six years has been the restoration of democracy in Ladakh, with statehood being the best solution.
He added that the issue could not be resolved in one or two meetings as it required a process, which was already underway.
“The discussions also covered the implementation of a reservation policy in Ladakh, the release of those detained in connection with the September 24 incident, including Sonam Wangchuk, and compensation for those who were killed or injured in the incident,” Kargili said.
Member of Parliament (MP) Hanifa Jaan said the meeting between Ladakh’s leadership and senior officials of the Union Home Ministry reflected a serious and sincere approach towards resolving the region’s long-pending issues.
“The discussions focused on demands related to statehood, inclusion under the Sixth Schedule, and constitutional safeguards, with all key points presented strongly before the Ministry,” he said.
Jan noted that while a final decision could not be reached in a single sitting, the meeting marked an important step forward. He expressed hope that the ongoing process would lead to meaningful progress on the issues facing Ladakh.
The meeting follows an announcement by the MHA on October 17 that a judicial inquiry would be held into the September 24 violence in Leh. That incident, which broke out during a protest called by LAB, resulted in four deaths and several injuries. It also led to dozens being taken into custody, including Wangchuk. (KNO)