Dialogue Resumes: Key Issues for Ladakh's Future Discussed with Centre

A delegation from Leh and Kargil resumed talks with the Centre, focusing on a four-point agenda: statehood for Ladakh, Sixth Schedule inclusion, reservation safeguards, and the revocation of the NSA on activist Sonam Wangchuk. The meeting was marked by constructive dialogue, with both sides showing readiness for continued engagement.

In a significant diplomatic effort to resolve months of impasse, members of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) resumed discussions with the Indian government on Wednesday. The dialogue centered around a four-point agenda, including statehood for Ladakh, inclusion in the Sixth Schedule, reservation protections, and withdrawing the National Security Act (NSA) from activist Sonam Wangchuk. This long-awaited meeting took place between senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs and a nine-member delegation, featuring key figures from the LAB, KDA, and Ladakh MP Mohd Haneefa Jan.

Haneefa Jan emphasized to ANI that the dialogue was positive, with open discussions on the major concerns, including statehood and Sixth Schedule inclusion, which are considered crucial for preserving Ladakh's identity and rights. Both parties agreed on the need for further discussions on reservation matters to develop a comprehensive and fair opportunity framework for all communities involved.

The removal of the NSA imposed on Sonam Wangchuk was also a focal point, as the delegation pushed for its revocation to restore public confidence and foster regional harmony. The meeting marks the renewal of engagement after prolonged deadlock following the MHA's announcement of a judicial inquiry into the tragic September 24 violence in Leh, which was a key condition set by LAB and KDA for participating in talks.

(With inputs from agencies.)