SRINAGAR: Kavinder Gupta, the newly appointed Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, will be sworn into office on Friday morning at a formal ceremony to be held at Raj Niwas Darbar Hall in Leh. Chief Justice Arun Palli of the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court will administer the oath of office and secrecy at 10 am, marking the beginning of Gupta’s tenure at a crucial juncture for the Union Territory.
Gupta arrived in Leh on Thursday to a rousing reception. He was welcomed by Ladakh Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal, DGP Dr SD Singh Jamwal, senior civil administration officials, cultural troupes, and prominent citizens. The ceremonial welcome featured traditional greetings and cultural performances, reflecting both the region’s heritage and the high expectations surrounding his leadership.
Sources said elaborate preparations are in full swing for the swearing-in ceremony, with administrative teams finalising guest lists, seating plans, and protocol arrangements. Invitations have been extended to senior political figures, religious heads, top officials, and representatives of social and cultural organisations across Leh and Kargil.
Hundreds of supporters and well-wishers of the veteran BJP leader have also begun arriving in Leh to witness the event, which is expected to draw significant public and media attention.
A politician from Jammu, Kavinder Gupta has held key constitutional positions including Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly and Deputy Chief Minister of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Known for his grassroots connect and firm organisational grip, Gupta is widely respected across party lines for his measured political conduct and administrative acumen.
Speaking to Excelsior after his arrival, Gupta said, “I will take all people along to take Ladakh on the path of progress and development, enriching its age-old culture, traditions and heritage. I will fully dedicate myself in coming up to the expectations of the people by taking all political parties, socio-political and religious organisations on board.”
Reacting to Gupta’s appointment, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah extended his congratulations but cautioned that the task ahead would be challenging. “My best wishes to Kavinder Gupta. But this responsibility is not easy. Working in high-altitude areas is tough,” Abdullah said during a visit to Samba district.
Referring to the sensitive socio-political dynamics of the region, Abdullah added, “He will have to maintain a balance and be sensitive to the sentiments of both Leh and Kargil. If he works with both sides equally, he will succeed.”
