ladakh-mp-elect-jan-adopts-wait-and-see-strategy

Following his victory in the recently concluded parliamentary elections from Ladakh, Haji Hanifa Jan is exploring all options by not aligning with any party at the Centre for now.

He defeated Tsering Namgyal of the Congress and Tashi Gyalson of the ruling BJP by nearly 28,000 votes.

Jan plans to initiate talks about the Sixth Schedule status and Ladakh statehood after the government's formation.

Prior to the elections, Jan and his entire Kargil unit resigned from the National Conference. Following his defection, he contested as an independent, promising Sixth Schedule status and statehood for Ladakh. He received 65,259 of the 1.35 lakh votes polled in Ladakh.

There was notable resentment against the BJP in the Union Territory, with its candidate Tashi Gyalson receiving only 31,956 votes, coming third after Congress’ Tsering Namgyal, who secured 37,397 votes.

While addressing a media gathering, Jan said, "We will approach the Central Government to initiate talks on the Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh. If there is no positive response, we will restart the agitation, and I will also raise the issue in Parliament.”

Jan added, “Our major issues are securing the Sixth Schedule and separate statehood for Ladakh," adding that he will first consult all Ladakh leaders before deciding on supporting any alliance.

When asked about intentions to join the NDA or INDIA Bloc, Jan replied that it is not yet decided; however, the decision will be made only after consultation with stakeholders.

Although he defected from the party, Omar Abdullah congratulated him on his victory, stating, “Your victory cost the NC its Kargil unit, but it was well worth the price.”

Responding to a query regarding re-joining the NC, Jan said, “No NC leader has approached me so far.”

Residents of the Union Territory had paused their agitation ahead of the Lok Sabha poll but are now waiting for the new government to form so that talks can begin. “We will approach the Central Government to initiate talks on various issues with the people of the UT,” he said.