Shutdown Called in Ladakh Over Political Disputes
SRINAGAR: The Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) announced a shutdown in Ladakh on Saturday, June 23. They are upset with the central government, claiming it has not honored agreements made during discussions held on May 22. Leaders from these groups expressed that their patience is wearing thin.
The two major political organizations in the region are frustrated that a draft from their meeting with a Union Home Ministry sub-committee did not include crucial agreements. These agreements involved a proposed legislative framework that would grant local powers over bureaucracy and constitutional protections for Ladakh, similar to provisions in Article 371.
Sonam Wangchuk, a member of the LAB and environmentalist, participated in the negotiations, which both groups considered a historic opportunity. They warned that if their main demands aren’t addressed, they would revert to seeking “full statehood and Sixth Schedule status” for Ladakh. This situation raises concerns of possible protests, especially during the busy tourist season.
Chering Dorjay Lakrook, co-chairman of the LAB, shared his disappointment, stating that he received a draft of the meeting minutes but noticed missing information. After requesting corrections, he said no revised document was provided.
“This is a serious issue for us. We hope the government corrects the omissions and reflects the decisions accurately in the official records,” Lakrook stated. He emphasized the need for the government to honor the agreements made during the talks, warning against a pattern of regression in negotiations.
He also mentioned that the anticipated visit of the Dalai Lama would not prevent protests. “Just because His Holiness is visiting does not mean the public will remain silent. There are many ways to voice our concerns,” said Lakrook.
The spiritual leader is expected to arrive on June 28, with plans for celebrations for his 91st birthday on July 6.
KDA co-chairman Asgar Ali Karbali issued a “final appeal” to the central government, advising them not to test the patience of the people of Ladakh further. “We have given enough time. The tolerance of the people here has its limits, and if crossed, the movement could take various forms,” he warned.
Since 2023, multiple discussions have taken place between the Centre and Ladakh. However, the dialogue came to a halt after tragic incidents on September 24, 2025, where four individuals died and over 80 were injured due to alleged police action during protests for statehood. Wangchuk faced accusations of inciting the protests, leading to his arrest under the National Security Act (NSA), though his detention was lifted in March this year.
