Ladakh: Representative Bodies Demand Statehood; Seek Two Lok Sabha Seats, Inclusion In Sixth Schedule

The representative bodies from Ladakh have presented a comprehensive set of demands to the Ministry of Home Affairs, urging for statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule for the newly-formed Union territory.

The Sixth Schedule contains provisions related to the administration of tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram. The schedule provides for the administration of certain tribal areas as autonomous entities.

Earlier, during the meeting with the Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai on 4 December 2023, Rai had asked the representatives to prepare a draft of the demands and submit it to the ministry to take the dialogue forward

Subsequently, the Apex Body of Leh and Kargil Democratic Alliance (ABL and KDA), a coalition of political, religious, and social organisations in Ladakh submitted the detailed draft.

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As reported by Economic Times, the submitted draft emphasises Ladakh's rich history, strategic importance, and environmental significance as compelling reasons for deserving statehood.

It also highlights the need to enhance political representation, empower locals to manifest their aspirations within the democratic framework, and foster a sense of belonging and participation in the nation-building process.

Formed after the reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019, the ABL and KDA collaborate to advocate for the rights of the people of Ladakh.

The ABL and KDA have demanded two seats in the Lok Sabha and one seat in the Rajya Sabha for Ladakh, when legislative assembly is granted to the region. 

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