Ahead of pivotal discussions in New Delhi on September 9, the Leh Apex Body (LAB) has issued a stern warning of escalating protests if the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) fails to deliver tangible results regarding its demands. LAB, along with the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), has led a sustained campaign advocating for constitutional safeguards for Ladakh since its designation as a Union Territory in August 2019.
The pressing demands from the LAB include legislation specific to Ladakh at the Union Territory level, protections under Article 371, and the withdrawal of legal cases linked to the violent incidents of September 24 last year. Additionally, they call for compensation for the victims and publication of the inquiry commission’s report investigating the tragedy.
“We welcome the September 9 meeting but will measure its success by its outcomes,” LAB chairman Chering Dorje Lakruk stated. He underscored the organisation’s readiness to augment their protests should the meeting fail to yield constructive dialogue on their issues.
Disappointment loomed over the delay in disclosing the inquiry commission’s findings concerning the violence that claimed four lives last year. Lakruk questioned the status of ongoing criminal cases against individuals implicated in the riots, emphasizing that, despite the government’s withdrawal of cases related to the July 20 incident in Delhi, similar compassion has not been extended towards Ladakh.
“Out of approximately 80 cases, only 25 have been dropped,” he noted, advocating for equal treatment for all Indian citizens. He reiterated the demand for compensation for families who lost loved ones or were injured during the protests.
In the meantime, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk highlighted that LAB has designated September as “Martyrs’ Month” to honour those adversely affected by the previous year’s turmoil. He shared that multiple initiatives are underway, although a planned padyatra from Kargil to Leh set to commence on September 10 has been postponed due to the critical MHA meeting.
“If the talks do not yield satisfactory results, the padyatra may be rescheduled for around five days prior to September 24,” Wangchuk confirmed. He urged the government to present a comprehensive draft regarding the proposed Ladakh Assembly during the upcoming discussions, emphasizing the necessity for clarity on the assembly’s powers and responsibilities.
“If there is adequate progress during the meeting, we will regard it as a success,” he concluded. Wangchuk also remarked that the situation surrounding the September 24 violence was exceptional, hinting the LAB may disclose critical information about the riots if necessary.
He cautioned that neglect towards Ladakh and its residents could trigger a substantial agitation following the September 9 discussions. “If we continue to receive stepmotherly treatment, we will have no choice but to escalate our protest plans significantly,” he warned.
