SRINAGAR: Civil society members on Saturday held a candle march in Kargil under the banner of ‘Democracy Bachao’, expressing concern over the deferment of the upcoming Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) elections.
The march also saw participants express solidarity with climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and the Leh Apex Body amid the ongoing concerns surrounding democratic representation and political developments in Ladakh.
The protest comes amid opposition from political and civil society groups in Ladakh to holding the LAHDC elections during the winter months. The groups have sought postponement of the December 4 polls, citing harsh weather conditions, seasonal migration and concerns over voter participation. The election schedule was announced by the Ladakh State Election Commission on November 10.
The march also reflected growing solidarity between civil society groups in Kargil and Leh over their demands concerning democratic rights and the political future of Ladakh.
