SRINAGAR: In a significant move, a delegation representing Ladakh’s Apex Body Leh (ABL) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) convened a high-level meeting with government representatives on Monday to advocate for crucial demands aimed at advancing the region’s political and developmental status.
Led by Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, the High Powered Committee (HPC) for Ladakh engaged in discussions with a 14-member delegation from Ladakh, comprising representatives from ABL and KDA. The delegation emphasised pressing demands including statehood for Ladakh, integration into the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, and the establishment of an exclusive public service commission tailored for the region.
In a joint press release issued after the meeting, the ABL and KDA disclosed that the discussions are slated to delve into the core demands on February 24, demonstrating a concerted effort to address Ladakh’s aspirations. Notably, in light of these developments, the planned hunger strike by the two organizations has been temporarily suspended.
The meeting further resolved to establish a joint sub-committee entrusted with the task of meticulously examining the intricacies of the demands. Comprising members from both ABL and KDA, including notable figures like Thupstan Chhewang and Qamar Ali Akhoon, the sub-committee is poised to engage in constructive dialogue to advance Ladakh’s interests.
This latest development comes against the backdrop of longstanding grievances stemming from Ladakh’s historical and political context. Once part of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh witnessed a pivotal transition following the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, resulting in its designation as a Union Territory without an Assembly.
Despite these changes, the people of Ladakh have persistently advocated for enhanced political representation and developmental initiatives. The BJP-led Centre, recognising the region’s aspirations, previously pledged to expedite Ladakh’s development during a meeting with the HPC for Ladakh in December last year.
The formation of the HPC for Ladakh underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding the region’s cultural heritage and addressing its unique socio-economic challenges. Through inclusive discussions and strategic measures, the committee seeks to chart a path towards comprehensive development and empowerment in Ladakh.
While Ladakh’s journey towards statehood and constitutional inclusion remains ongoing, the collaborative efforts between the government and local representatives signal a promising step forward in addressing the aspirations of the region’s populace.
