Are Key Talks on Ladakh Statehood Happening at Kartavya Bhawan?
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Synopsis
A pivotal meeting is taking place in New Delhi involving key representatives from Ladakh's leadership and the Union Home Ministry. This dialogue addresses pressing issues such as statehood demands, the Sixth Schedule, and the fate of detained climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. The outcome of this meeting could significantly impact the future of Ladakh.
Key Takeaways
- Meeting between LAB and KDA with Union Home Ministry officials.
- Focus on statehood and Sixth Schedule for Ladakh.
- Discussion on compensation for victims of recent violence.
- Judicial probe ordered by the Centre into September 24 incidents.
- First formal talks since the unrest in Leh.
New Delhi, Oct 22 (NationPress) A significant meeting is currently taking place in Delhi, where representatives from the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) are engaging with senior officials from the Union Home Ministry. This gathering aims to address vital topics regarding Ladakh, such as the push for statehood, inclusion under the Sixth Schedule, and the release of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk along with other individuals currently detained.
The meeting, hosted at Kartavya Bhawan 3, signifies the first official dialogue between the leadership of Ladakh and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) following the recent unrest in Leh, which resulted in four civilian fatalities and nearly 100 injuries.
Notable attendees from the LAB include Thupstan Chhewang, Chhering Dorjay, and Ashraf, while the KDA is represented by Asghar Ali Karbalai, Qamar Ali Akhun, and Sajjad Kargili. Additionally, Ladakh MP Haji Hanifa Jan is present as a public representative for both groups.
Sources indicate that discussions will also focus on compensation for the families of victims affected during the violent clashes.
This meeting follows the Centre's directive for a judicial investigation, led by a former Supreme Court judge, concerning the violence that erupted on September 24. The Ladakh bodies agreed to continue talks after this announcement.
Previously, on October 6, the LAB and KDA had refused to meet with central officials due to the government's inaction on their demands.
The MHA's eight-member subcommittee includes LAB chairman Thupstan Chhewang, Chering Dorjay Lakrook, Ashraf Barch, and lawyer Haji Mustafa from Leh, while the KDA’s representatives include Asgar Ali Karbalai, Sajjad Kargili, Qamar Ali Akhoon, and Kargil MP Haji Hanifa.
The unrest on September 24 coincided with the 15th day of Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike, which demanded statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh. Protests escalated into confrontations with law enforcement, resulting in damage to public properties, including the arson of a BJP office and a police vehicle.
The Centre subsequently accused Wangchuk of inciting the violence, applying the National Security Act (NSA) against him, and transferring him to Jodhpur jail.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of dialogue in addressing the pressing issues facing Ladakh. A peaceful resolution to the demands for statehood and rights under the Sixth Schedule is essential for ensuring stability and progress in the region. It is imperative that all parties engage constructively in these discussions.
NationPress
22/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of the meeting in Delhi?
The primary focus is to discuss key issues relevant to Ladakh, including demands for statehood, Sixth Schedule inclusion, and the situation of detained activists.
Who are the main representatives at the meeting?
Key representatives include members from the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance, along with various officials from the Union Home Ministry.
What events led to this meeting?
The meeting follows recent unrest in Leh, which resulted in civilian casualties and injuries, prompting the need for dialogue.
What are the implications of the ongoing unrest?
The unrest highlights the urgent need for addressing the political and social demands of the Ladakhi people, which could influence future governance in the region.
How has the Centre responded to the violence?
The Centre has ordered a judicial probe into the violence and has invoked the National Security Act against activist Sonam Wangchuk.
