Ladakh delegation gears up for meeting with Centre tomorrow
The delegation of social, political, and religious leaders under the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) has begun strategising for their four-point agenda ahead of their meeting with Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai on December 3.
The six-member Ladakh delegation has reached the national capital, where discussions will take place with the Minister and other government officials. The agenda includes the implementation of the Sixth Schedule in Ladakh, statehood, an exclusive Public Service Commission (PSC), and two Parliamentary seats (currently one).
Talks between the Home Ministry and Ladakh groups resumed after environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk staged a sit-in protest in October in Delhi, demanding the implementation of the Sixth Schedule.
Members from Leh Apex Body expected to attend include Thupstan Chhewang, Chering Dorjay Lakruk, and Nawang Rigzin Jora, while representatives from Kargil Democratic Alliance include Qamar Ali Akhoon, Asgar Karbalaie, and Sajjad Kargili. The delegation represents both Leh and Kargil districts of the Union Territory.
Speaking to The Tribune, Chering Dorjay Lakruk expressed hope that all four points on the agenda would be addressed. “These issues are crucial for the people of Ladakh, represented by LAB and KDA. We aim to resolve pending matters and trust our aspirations will be acknowledged,” he said.
Talks between Ladakh leaders and the Centre had stalled earlier this year when the government rejected their demands. However, Sonam Wangchuk’s protest prompted the Centre to resume dialogue.
While the delegation is pushing for all four demands, sources suggest the Union government may agree to an exclusive PSC for Ladakh while deferring other demands to future discussions. The delegation is likely to prioritize the Sixth Schedule before addressing other issues.
Earlier, the government announced five new districts for Ladakh, hoping to appease local sentiments by decentralising administrative powers within the Union Territory.
