Ladakh Talks Resume on September 9 for Special Status

Talks between Ladakh’s civil society groups and the government are set to resume in New Delhi on September 9. These discussions aim to address demands for special status under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which would protect the region’s land, culture, jobs, ecology, and identity.

Since Ladakh became a Union Territory (UT) in 2019, there have been continuous efforts to secure a tailored governance model. Previous talks in May promised a customized approach under Article 371, though statehood remains a long-term goal.

Recent measures by the Lieutenant-Governor include establishing a High Court bench, land rights for genuine claimants, and hill councils for all districts. However, these decisions have been made without adequate stakeholder consultation, leading to concerns about their alignment with ongoing talks.

The proposed hill councils aim to enhance local representation but lack constitutional autonomy, as sought by groups like the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance. These bodies also seek the withdrawal of police cases against protesters from last year’s demonstrations and compensation for those affected during the unrest.

In anticipation of these discussions, all Martyrs’ Month protest marches have been suspended to focus on dialogue with the Centre.