Ahead of Dec 3 meet, Ladakh leaders study Northeast models to bolster tribal safeguards

‘Optimistic about MHA’s offer, but constitutional safeguards non-negotiable’: Leh Apex Body

Jammu, November 16: Ahead of the crucial December 3 meeting in New Delhi between the MHA-formed High-Powered Committee (HPC) and representatives of the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and Leh Apex Body (LAB), Ladakh’s leaders have conducted an in-depth review of the Sixth Schedule and its role in safeguarding tribal interests through autonomous governance in the Northeast states of India.
The leaders have also conducted an extensive study of the Article 371A of the Indian Constitution in Nagaland, which grants it special status. The Article 371A gives Nagaland special constitutional provisions that allow the state to maintain its unique culture, legal system, and land ownership structures.
“I recently returned from Assam and Nagaland after studying hill development councils under the Sixth Schedule and Article 371A’s provisions. Two of our leaders are still there for further analysis. Before the next MHA meeting, we will hold detailed discussions with our leaders as to how to proceed further on the subject matter,” said Chering Dorjay, veteran leader of the Leh Apex Body (LAB), told The News Now.
Dorjay said that the study aims to understand how these provisions protect tribal populations and grant autonomy. He affirmed that safeguarding Ladakhi interests remains non-negotiable, though the leaders are open to reviewing offers from the central government.
“We will discuss all aspects of the Sixth Schedule before holding the next meeting with the MHA. There will be no flexibility over safeguarding the interests of Ladakhi people but we are optimistic to see the offers made by the Central government while addressing the concerns of Ladakh (after it was granted the status of the Union Territory),” Dorjay said.
He said the LAB and the KDA leaders plan another round of internal discussions before jointly meeting with the HPC. For over two years, the LAB and KDA have advocated for a four-point agenda, including Sixth Schedule inclusion, statehood, two parliamentary seats (one each for Leh and Kargil), and a dedicated Public Service Commission for Ladakh. Talks with the MHA had stalled since March due to a deadlock.
Meanwhile, the Union government attempted to placate the region by announcing five new districts in August, raising Ladakh’s total to seven. However, the move did not fully address local demands.
The process for the creation of five districts has already been set in motion by the UT administration of Ladakh and it will be done soon after a high-level Committee constituted for the purpose submits its report while recruitment on Gazetted posts which has been held up for a long time would also start.
Adding momentum to the agitation, innovator and educationist Sonam Wangchuk reignited the movement in September with a foot march from Leh to Delhi, demanding Sixth Schedule protections for Ladakh’s environment and communities. Though detained before reaching Delhi, his protest brought renewed attention to the issue. Following his fast at Ladakh Bhawan, the Center agreed in October to resume talks, prompting Wangchuk’s return to the UT.
However, innovator and educationist Sonam Wangchuk launched a renewed agitation in the form of a foot march from Leh to New Delhi in September raising the demand for the Sixth Schedule to protect the environment and local communities.

Updated On 11/17/2024 5:14:07 AM