On Monday, thousands of people participated in rallies in Leh and Kargil, organized by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA). The demonstrations were aimed at pressing for statehood and Sixth Schedule status for the Union Territory of Ladakh. This mobilization followed the recent revocation of the National Security Act against climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, a member of LAB, leading to his release from imprisonment after nearly six months. Wangchuk had been detained since September of the previous year due to unrest during protests related to these very demands.

Rallies Marking a Significant Movement

LAB convenor Gelek Phunchok characterized the recent rallies as the largest gatherings since the protests of September last year, which resulted in four fatalities and injuries to over 80 individuals due to what has been described as police firing. Demonstrators displayed portraits of those killed alongside placards bearing messages such as “Ladakh demands statehood and Sixth Schedule,” “No more delays, statehood now,” and “Protect Ladakh culture.”

Statements from LAB Leadership

During the rally held at Polo Ground in Leh, LAB co-chairman Chering Dorjay Lakrook expressed that Wangchuk’s release validated their stance. He criticized former Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta for labeling Wangchuk and the people of Ladakh as “anti-national,” asserting that their peaceful mobilization disproved such claims. Lakrook praised the community for adhering to LAB’s directives and maintaining a peaceful protest. He called upon the Union Home Ministry to initiate further discussions with representatives from Ladakh, stressing that any additional delays were unacceptable.

Government Discussions Stalled

A high-level committee from the Ministry of Home Affairs, led by Junior Home Minister Nityanand Rai, has been engaged in dialogue with Ladakh’s representatives regarding their aspirations. However, discussions have been impeded following the tragic events last September and Wangchuk’s subsequent arrest.

Community Unity in Kargil

In Kargil, KDA co-chairman Asghar Ali Karbali criticized local authorities for allegedly attempting to sow discord within the community. He remarked that the simultaneous rallies in Leh and Kargil demonstrated the unity among Ladakh’s citizens. Karbali welcomed Wangchuk’s release, expressing hope that it would pave the way toward increased autonomy and the desired status for Ladakh. Fellow KDA member Sajjad Kargili reiterated their commitment to sustained protests until their key demands are fulfilled.

Independent MP Addresses the Crowd

Ladakh’s Independent Member of Parliament, Mohmad Haneefa, also delivered remarks during the assembly in Kargil, encouraging attendees to resist efforts aimed at diminishing the region’s cohesion. His comments reinforced the collective resolve among the populace to pursue their aspirations of statehood and enhance the legislative protections necessary for preserving their cultural identity.

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