Massive Protests Erupt in Ladakh Demanding Statehood and Sixth Schedule
Renewed Protests in Ladakh
The ongoing movement in Ladakh has gained significant momentum once again. Just two days after the release of activist Sonam Wangchuk, large-scale rallies took place in Leh and Kargil on Monday. These demonstrations were organized under the banners of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA). The primary aim was to urge the central government to grant full statehood to Ladakh and to initiate discussions regarding the long-pending demand for the implementation of the Sixth Schedule.
For the past five years, this movement has been led by both organizations. The Kargil region and nearby Dras area observed a complete shutdown, while security measures were heightened across the Union Territory of Ladakh. Officials reported that there were no untoward incidents during the protests.
Significance of the Rally
This rally marked the first major public gathering organized by LAB following violent incidents in September, which led to strict administrative measures after police actions. Wangchuk had been detained under the National Security Act (NSA) for nearly six months, and the central government announced his release on Saturday, aiming to facilitate constructive dialogue with all parties involved. Prior to Wangchuk's release, LAB and KDA had already announced protests demanding the next round of talks.
In February, during a meeting of a high-powered committee, both organizations had called for the unconditional release of Wangchuk and 70 other detainees.
Rally Details and Leadership
The rally commenced from Singe Namgyal Chowk in Leh, led by LAB co-chair Chering Dorje. Protesters marched to Leh Polo Ground, with a significant number of women participating. They chanted slogans in support of statehood and the Sixth Schedule, while some carried photographs of four individuals who lost their lives during the violence last September. A similar rally was held in Kargil, where KDA co-chair Asgar Ali Karbali, MP Hanifa Jan, and activist Sajjad Kargili addressed the crowd, reiterating demands for statehood, the Sixth Schedule, the release of two detained activists, and the withdrawal of cases related to last year's events.
Community Support and Future Actions
In a conversation with reporters, Chering Dorje expressed gratitude to the people for coming out in large numbers despite barricades and administrative restrictions. He stated that the people of Ladakh have demonstrated their strength peacefully, and this rally is a testament to the widespread popularity of the movement. He claimed that the public stands firmly with LAB and KDA, countering claims made by opponents of the movement. Wangchuk's release is viewed as a positive step towards dialogue, yet the protesters remain steadfast in their core demands.