Ahead of crucial talks with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in New Delhi on September 9, the Leh Apex Body (LAB) has warned of intensifying its agitation if the Centre does not make concrete progress on significant demands. The LAB, along with the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), has led the demand for constitutional and political safeguards for Ladakh since its transition to Union Territory status in August 2019.
The LAB seeks immediate legislation for Ladakh at the Union Territory level, inclusion of safeguards under Article 371, withdrawal of cases stemming from the September 24 violence last year, compensation for victims, and publication of the inquiry commission report regarding the incident.
LAB chairman Chering Dorje Lakruk welcomed the upcoming MHA meeting but stressed that the success of the discussions hinges on their outcomes. He stated, “If the meeting produces a positive outcome and there is constructive and result-oriented dialogue on these issues, we will welcome it. Otherwise, we will intensify our agitation very strongly.”
Disappointment loomed over the delay in revealing the inquiry report into the September 24 violence, which resulted in four deaths. Lakruk pointed out the unresolved cases against individuals associated with the violent protests. While he acknowledged progress regarding the withdrawal of cases linked to the July 20 Jantar Mantar incident in Delhi, he criticized the Centre for what he termed a “double standard” towards Ladakh.
“We are all Indians, and everyone should be treated equally. The lives of the people of Ladakh are not so cheap,” Lakruk reiterated, echoing the demand for compensation for families of the deceased and injured.
In a related note, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk highlighted that LAB is observing September as “Martyrs’ Month” to honor those affected last year. Wangchuk reported various planned events but postponed a padyatra from Kargil to Leh, originally set for September 10, due to the imminent MHA discussions.
“We have collectively decided to postpone the padyatra for the time being,” Wangchuk said, adding that the march may resume if the talks yield unsatisfactory results. Should this occur, they might schedule the padyatra approximately five days prior to September 24.
Wangchuk also expressed hope for a detailed draft regarding the proposed Ladakh Assembly, outlining its powers and rights to be presented in the September 9 meeting. “If there is progress on these issues, we will consider the talks successful,” he said.
Wangchuk conveyed concern regarding the unique circumstances surrounding the September 24 violence, implying that the LAB could share further revelations on the incidents of arson and unrest if necessary. “If Ladakh is not treated in the same manner and stepmotherly treatment is meted out to Ladakh and the people living along the borders, then we will be compelled to launch a very large-scale agitation after September 9,” he warned.
