Leh, Oct 17 : Talks between the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Ladakh representatives ended without an agreement on constitutional safeguards and a proposed elected legislative body for the Union Territory, with both sides scheduled to resume discussions in New Delhi on October 22.
The meeting, held in Leh saw the Ministry and representatives of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) exchange draft proposals. However, the Ladakh groups expressed dissatisfaction with the Centre’s draft, saying it fell short of their demands for constitutional guarantees and meaningful legislative, executive and financial powers.
The discussions form part of ongoing negotiations over Ladakh’s political and governance framework following its separation from the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019. The LAB and KDA have been pressing for constitutional safeguards, greater democratic autonomy and statehood, alongside protections for land, employment and the region’s distinct interests.
A key point of discussion is the Centre’s reported proposal for a special constitutional provision under Article 371(K), alongside a proposed elected body at the Union Territory level. Ladakh representatives have maintained that any arrangement must provide substantive powers rather than a body with limited authority.
KDA co-chairman Asgar Karbalai said the draft presented by the Home Ministry did not match the demands or aspirations of the people of Ladakh. Representatives have called for constitutional guarantees and an elected legislature with legislative, executive and financial authority.
LAB representatives also indicated that the two sides remained far apart on their respective proposals. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk described the outcome as unsatisfactory, while leaving room for continued engagement as the draft proposals are examined and revised.
The October 22 meeting in New Delhi is expected to focus on the differences between the proposals and the way forward. Ladakh representatives have indicated that they will review the Centre’s draft with their legal experts and prepare a response.
No agreement has yet been announced on the final constitutional framework or the powers of the proposed elected body, leaving the region’s long-standing demands unresolved as negotiations continue. [KNT]
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