SRINAGAR: The Leh Apex Body (LAB) has prepared a draft proposal seeking the establishment of a Union Territory-level elected body vested with legislative, executive and financial powers. The proposal will be finalised after joint consultations with the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) before being submitted to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
As per sources, the draft document has been prepared with the assistance of senior legal experts and is intended to provide Ladakh with a stronger institutional framework for democratic governance. A joint meeting of the LAB and KDA is expected to be convened shortly to deliberate on the proposal and evolve a consensus on the final draft.
The proposed elected body is envisioned as a representative institution with legislative, executive and financial authority to strengthen local governance, enhance public participation in decision-making and ensure greater administrative accountability in the Union Territory.
The proposal also seeks to address the long-standing demands of the LAB and KDA for constitutional safeguards, including the protection of land, employment opportunities, cultural heritage and the unique identity of the people of Ladakh.
Sources said that after both organisations approve the common draft, it will be formally submitted to the Ministry of Home Affairs for consideration. The Centre is expected to examine the proposal before taking a final decision on the future governance framework for Ladakh, although the process is likely to take some time. (KNC)
