Ladakh Leaders Advocate for Political Autonomy in Crucial High Powered Committee Meeting

Ladakh's Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance push for constitutional protections and political autonomy during a pivotal meeting with the Centre. Added demands include statehood, legislative assembly, and Sonam Wangchuk's release, amid a backdrop of previous conflicts and new domicile policies.

This week's meeting of the High Powered Committee is set to see Ladakh's Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) advocate strongly for increased political autonomy and constitutional protections for their region. The discussion, chaired by Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai, is a key moment following last year's suspension of talks due to violent protests.

Key issues on the table include demands for full statehood, a legislative assembly, and the release of activist Sonam Wangchuk detained under the National Security Act. The leaders aim to re-establish talks that prioritize the unique cultural and ecological needs of their predominantly tribal community.

Recent developments include new reservation and domicile policies announced by the home ministry following past negotiations. These rules reserve a significant portion of jobs and development council seats for locals, highlighting ongoing negotiations about the future governance and autonomy of the Union territory of Ladakh.