Context:
The Union Home Ministry has invited representatives of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) for talks in New Delhi after both groups withdrew earlier from dialogue over key political demands. The talks come weeks after violent protests in Ladakh on September 24 seeking statehood and Sixth Schedule status for the Union Territory.
Key Highlights / Details:
- Background of Protests
- On September 24, protests in Leh demanding constitutional safeguards turned violent.
- Four people were killed and over 70 injured in clashes between protestors and paramilitary forces.
- Demands of Ladakh Groups
- Statehood for Ladakh
- Inclusion under Sixth Schedule to protect tribal rights and land ownership
- Separate Public Service Commission
- Parliamentary representation
- Job and land protection for Ladakhis
- Environmental safeguards
- Government Response
- Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) invited delegation for talks on October 22 in New Delhi.
- Talks aimed at discussing constitutional safeguards on land, culture and environment.
- Leaders from LAB and KDA, along with Ladakh MP and legal representatives, to attend talks.
- MHA aims to restore dialogue after recent tensions.
- Kargil Group’s Stand
- KDA stresses “genuine dialogue” for trust-building.
- Seeks time-bound action and implementation roadmap.
- Warns against “cosmetic talks” without policy outcomes.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Sixth Schedule: Provides autonomy to tribal areas through Autonomous District Councils; applies to Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura & Mizoram.
- Article 370 Abrogation (2019): Led to the bifurcation of J&K into J&K and Ladakh UTs.
- Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils exist in Leh (1995) and Kargil (2003).
- Tribal Population in Ladakh: Over 97% are Scheduled Tribes.
Relevant Mains Points:
- Significance of Sixth Schedule for Ladakh: Safeguards land, cultural identity, tribal customs.
- Centre-State Relations Issue: Demand for decentralization and constitutional federalism.
- Security Concerns: Protests in border-sensitive Ladakh region have strategic implications.
- Development vs. Identity Debate: Addressing local aspirations while ensuring national integration.