The Ladakh administration has announced its decision to withdraw First Information Reports (FIRs) against 25 individuals who were booked in connection with the statehood protests that occurred last year. This development comes as leaders from the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) continue to press for their demands regarding the region’s political future. A formal meeting between these Ladakh leaders and representatives from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is anticipated in New Delhi during the first half of September, signaling ongoing dialogue between the central government and the Union Territory’s political stakeholders.
Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that a total of 87 individuals were initially booked following the protests in September of the previous year. These demonstrations, which sought greater autonomy and statehood for Ladakh, tragically resulted in the deaths of four people due to police firing. The demand for the withdrawal of these cases was a significant point raised by the representatives of the LAB and KDA during their engagements with the administration. In response to these persistent appeals, the administration has now opted to withdraw cases filed against those accused of minor charges.
A meeting held in Leh on Wednesday brought together representatives from the LAB and KDA with senior officials from the MHA and the Ladakh Chief Secretary. Following this meeting, Ladakh Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra addressed a press conference on Thursday, providing details on the bookings made during the September protests. Kundra stated that chargesheets have been presented against nine individuals who allegedly instigated the mob that turned violent. He further explained that once a chargesheet is filed, the case is transferred to the court. However, after discussions with the Lieutenant Governor, the decision was made to withdraw the FIRs against 25 individuals booked under minor charges. These withdrawals will be processed through closure reports submitted to the court. The Chief Secretary also indicated that a request has been made to the Ladakh Director General of Police to review if any other individuals who did not actively participate in the violence could also have their cases considered for withdrawal.
During the meeting on Wednesday, Ladakh leaders presented a set of demands described as “non-negotiable.” Among these key demands was the establishment of a Union Territory-level body that would include an Assembly headed by a Chief Minister and supported by a Council of Ministers. This proposal reflects a broader aspiration for enhanced political representation and administrative control within Ladakh. The Chief Secretary acknowledged that the proposed UT-level administrative body, discussed in an earlier meeting with the leaders, does not have a precedent elsewhere in the country. He further elaborated that the MHA is in the process of structuring the framework for this body to give it a formal shape. Kundra emphasized that such significant decisions cannot be made instantaneously, as the objective is to construct a novel administrative model that genuinely reflects the sentiments of the people of Ladakh while strictly adhering to the constitutional framework of India. This indicates a methodical approach to addressing the complex political aspirations of the region.
Subcommittee-level discussions between the MHA and Ladakh leaders had previously taken place in New Delhi on May 22. Following that meeting, the LAB and KDA had conveyed that an understanding had been reached concerning the provision of constitutional safeguards for Ladakh. This suggests a gradual progression in the dialogue, with specific areas of agreement being identified, even as broader political demands continue to be debated. The ongoing engagement between the MHA and the Ladakh leadership underscores the central government’s commitment to addressing the region’s unique political and administrative concerns, albeit through a structured and constitutional process. The withdrawal of FIRs against a section of the protestors marks a significant step in de-escalating tensions and fostering a conducive environment for further negotiations on the future governance of Ladakh. The administration’s move is seen as a gesture of goodwill aimed at building trust and facilitating constructive dialogue on the path towards a mutually agreeable resolution for the Union Territory’s statehood aspirations.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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