A complete shutdown enveloped Leh, the heart of the Union Territory of Ladakh, as prominent educationist and social reformer Sonam Wangchuk initiated an indefinite fast today.
This dramatic turn of events follows unsuccessful discussions between the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Ladakh's leading organisations, stirring widespread support among the local population.
In a strong display of unity, all shops and business establishments shuttered their doors, heeding the call of various religious groups. The community's action underscores a protest against the refusal of the Sixth Schedule status and other demands put forth by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA).
The streets of Leh witnessed a peaceful march, culminating in a rally where participants voiced their demands for Statehood, Sixth Schedule recognition, and a special Public Service Commission for Ladakh. The LAB and KDA leadership have signalled their intention to continue engaging with Ladakh's populace on the future course of action.
At the rally held at NDS Stadium, Sonam Wangchuk, alongside LAB co-chairman Chering Dorjey Lakruk, addressed the gathering before Wangchuk commenced his fast. Wangchuk appealed to the Union Government to honour its promises to Ladakh, indicating the fast would persist in 21-day cycles until their demands are met.
Lakruk highlighted the impasse in negotiations with the MHA, emphasising the insistence on the direct implementation of the Sixth Schedule and restoration of Statehood. He critiqued the MHA's approach of indirect implementation, calling for more concrete actions.
Despite recent dialogues with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and other Central Government officials, which saw assurances given to LAB and KDA representatives, tangible progress remains elusive. The Government's High Powered Committee, established to address these issues, continues to explore Constitutional guarantees, leaving the region in a state of hopeful anticipation for a resolution.
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