Ladakh to get unique elected body instead of statehood: official

The Home Ministry has proposed establishing a uniquely structured elected body to govern Ladakh under the provisions of Article 371 of the Constitution, according to the union territory's Chief Secretary. The proposal was presented at a meeting with the Ladakh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), two prominent regional organisations that have long campaigned for statehood.

Under the proposed framework, Ladakh would receive a dedicated elected body with specific administrative powers as a union territory, rather than being granted full statehood status. The Home Ministry briefed regional representatives on the constitutional structure and functioning of this proposed institution during the meeting.

However, Ladakh's political leadership has expressed frustration with the government's approach. Representatives from both LAB and KDA dismissed the meeting as a "waste of time and money," claiming that the Home Ministry and Ladakh's union territory administration are not aligned on key issues.

The friction highlights the ongoing tensions between the central government and Ladakh's elected representatives over governance arrangements since the region was carved out as a separate union territory in 2019. Regional leaders continue to push for statehood, viewing it as essential for greater autonomy and political representation. The government's alternative proposal of a special elected body appears unlikely to satisfy their demands in the near term.