The Leh Apex Body (LAB) has warned it will escalate its agitation if the scheduled meeting with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on September 9 in New Delhi does not lead to meaningful outcomes. The LAB, with support from the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), seeks constitutional and political safeguards for the Ladakh region after its designation as a Union Territory in August 2019.
The LAB’s primary demands focus on establishing legislation at the Union Territory level, implementing safeguards under Article 371, dropping criminal cases linked to last year’s violent events, providing compensation for the victims, and disclosing the inquiry commission report investigating the violence.
LAB chairman Chering Dorje Lakruk expressed cautious optimism ahead of the crucial talks but emphasized the need for significant progress. “If the meeting produces a positive outcome and there is constructive dialogue, we will welcome it. Otherwise, we will intensify our agitation very strongly,” Lakruk stated.
He highlighted concerns surrounding the slow release of the inquiry commission’s report on the September 24 violence, which resulted in four fatalities. Lakruk criticized the continued legal action against individuals involved in the unrest, noting that only 25 of about 80 cases have been withdrawn so far. He remarked, “We are all Indians, and everyone should be treated equally. The lives of the people of Ladakh are not so cheap.”
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk joined the voices rallying for justice, declaring September as “Martyrs’ Month” to honor those affected last year. Wangchuk stated they had planned various events, but a significant padyatra from Kargil to Leh has been postponed to avoid conflict with the MHA discussions.
Wangchuk said, “We have collectively decided to postpone the padyatra for the time being.” He affirmed the march could recommence if the outcome of the September 9 meeting does not satisfy the LAB’s demands. “A revival would likely be staged five days ahead of September 24,” he mentioned.
He reiterated that during the meeting, the LAB expects a comprehensive draft regarding a proposed Ladakh Assembly, which should outline its powers and rights. “If progress is made on these issues, we will consider the talks successful,” Wangchuk asserted.
Wangchuk further commented on the conditions surrounding the violent incidents last year, asserting they are “not normal.” He indicated a possibility for the LAB to share insights on the violence and subsequent arson incidents if necessary. He warned, “If Ladakh is not treated equitably, we will be compelled to launch a very large-scale agitation after September 9.”
The upcoming talks represent a critical juncture for Ladakh, a region that has witnessed significant turmoil since its Union Territory designation. As local leaders and activists push for attention from the central government, the outcome of the September 9 discussions holds the potential to either quell discontent or kindle further agitation.
