SRINAGAR: Women’s organisations in Ladakh have temporarily called off their protest against the Union Territory administration’s liquor policy after receiving a written assurance that their demands would be accepted, with the administration seeking a week’s time to formalise the agreement.
The four organisations suspended their planned dharna from October 29 to November 5 following an assurance issued by the Home Department on October 29. The letter, signed by Special Secretary Tashi Dolma, accepted in principle all the recommendations and points submitted by the groups concerning the liquor policy.
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk announced the development in a post on X on Thursday, saying the women’s leaders had suspended their agitation after the administration agreed to their demands and sought a week to finalise the agreement.
He expressed hope that the administration would honour the trust placed in it by the protesting women.
The organisations involved in the agitation are the Ladakh Buddhist Association Women Wing, Anjuman-e-Imamia Women Wing, Anjuman Moin-ul-Islam Women Wing and Christian Community Women Wing.
In a joint press release, the groups said the administration had requested seven days to complete the formalities through dialogue and cooperation. They agreed to suspend the dharna temporarily to allow the authorities time to fulfil their commitment and put the agreed points into writing.
The organisations clarified that the decision reflected their confidence in the administration’s assurance and acknowledged the support extended by people across Ladakh during the agitation.
The protests began last week following the introduction of the new liquor policy, particularly the expansion of liquor availability through recent bar licences and wine shop approvals.
The women’s groups have been demanding a complete withdrawal of the policy and the declaration of Ladakh as a dry Union Territory. They said their concerns centred on protecting young people, preserving the region’s social fabric and safeguarding its cultural and spiritual values.
The organisations reiterated their commitment to working towards a healthier Ladakh free from alcohol addiction.
