In the serene mountain town of Leh, nestled in the Himalayas, a wave of protests has surged through the streets, echoing the deep-rooted concerns of the people of Ladakh. What began as sporadic demonstrations has now evolved into a sustained movement demanding constitutional safeguards and recognition of Ladakh’s unique identity.
The Core Demand: Sixth Schedule Inclusion
At the heart of the protests is the demand for inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. This provision grants autonomy to tribal areas, allowing them to govern themselves through elected councils and protect their land, culture, and resources. Protesters argue that Ladakh, with its predominantly tribal population and fragile ecosystem, deserves similar protections to preserve its heritage and prevent unchecked development.
Concerns Over Land, Jobs, and Culture
Since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 and the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh has been administered directly by the central government as a Union Territory without a legislature. This shift has sparked fears among locals about losing control over land ownership, employment opportunities, and cultural preservation. The absence of local governance structures has intensified these anxieties, leading to calls for greater autonomy and representation.
United Front of Protesters
The protests have brought together a diverse coalition — student groups, religious leaders, political parties, and civil society organizations — under the banner of the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance. These groups have been instrumental in organizing rallies, hunger strikes, and public meetings to press their demands. Their unity reflects a rare moment of solidarity between Leh and Kargil, regions often divided by religious and political differences.
Government Response and Dialogue
While the central government has held multiple rounds of talks with Ladakhi leaders, no concrete assurances have been given regarding Sixth Schedule status. Protesters remain firm in their stance, warning that continued neglect could lead to irreversible damage to Ladakh’s environment and social fabric.
The protests in Leh are not just about political autonomy — they are a cry for recognition, respect, and protection of a region that stands at the crossroads of tradition and modernity. As the movement gains momentum, all eyes are on New Delhi to see whether it will heed the call of the mountains.