Will Normalcy in Ladakh Enable Meaningful Dialogue with the Centre?
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Synopsis
The Leh Apex Body demands restoration of peace in Ladakh before resuming talks with the Centre. Amidst rising tensions and recent violence, the Kargil Democratic Alliance warns of alienation and calls for the release of detained activists. Can dialogue be achieved without addressing the underlying issues?
Key Takeaways
- Dialogue is on hold until peace is restored in Ladakh.
- The KDA warns of further alienation of Ladakhi people.
- The demand for statehood remains strong among local leaders.
- Recent violence led to fatalities and injuries, raising concerns.
- Activist Sonam Wangchuk's detention has become a focal point of protest.
Leh, Sep 29 (NationPress) The Leh Apex Body announced on Monday that discussions with the Centre will remain on hold until peace is reestablished in the Ladakh region.
Chairman Thupstan Chhewang urged the Centre and the UT administration to tackle the prevailing climate of fear, sorrow, and anger in Ladakh.
"We have reached a unanimous decision that as long as the current situation persists, meaningful dialogue cannot take place without restoring peace in Ladakh," he stated.
In a related matter, the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) has cautioned the Centre against alienating the residents of Ladakh. They have demanded the immediate release of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and others detained following the recent violence in Leh.
Both the KDA and the Leh Apex Body have been advocating for statehood and other critical demands. They hold the UT administration responsible for the deaths of four individuals and injuries to many, including security personnel.
Sajjad Kargili of the KDA has called for the unconditional release of Wangchuk and the detained youth after the unrest in Leh.
Kargilli emphasized that statehood and inclusion in the 6th Schedule are non-negotiable demands for the Ladakh region.
On September 24, four protesters lost their lives and over 70 were injured when a violent mob engaged in stone-pelting and arson. The mob targeted a CRPF vehicle, attempting to set it ablaze with CRPF personnel inside.
The crowd also vandalized the local BJP office and the office of the Leh Apex Body, alongside damaging the vehicle of the DGP.
Wangchuk, who had been on a hunger strike since September 10, ended his fast on September 24 amidst the outbreak of violence.
He was subsequently arrested under the National Security Act (NSA) and transferred to Jodhpur jail. Moreover, the Ministry of Home Affairs has revoked the FCRA registration certificate of the SECMOL (Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh), which Wangchuk founded, citing severe violations.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the grievances of the people in Ladakh. The unrest underscores the need for open communication and genuine engagement from the government. As national editors, we must advocate for a balanced approach that prioritizes peace while addressing the demands for statehood and security in the region.
NationPress
29/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are talks between the Leh Apex Body and the Centre suspended?
Talks are suspended due to the prevailing atmosphere of fear and unrest in the Ladakh region.
What are the main demands of the Kargil Democratic Alliance?
The KDA is advocating for statehood and the release of detained activists, including Sonam Wangchuk.
What incident triggered the recent violence in Leh?
The violence erupted from a large mob engaging in stone-pelting and arson, resulting in fatalities and injuries.
What is the significance of the 6th Schedule for Ladakh?
Inclusion in the 6th Schedule is seen as essential for granting autonomy and protection of local interests in Ladakh.
What actions have been taken against Sonam Wangchuk?
Sonam Wangchuk was arrested under the National Security Act and transferred to Jodhpur jail.
