Sub-committee level discussions between representatives of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and leaders from Ladakh took place in New Delhi on Wednesday, with further deliberations anticipated. This meeting follows a previous sub-committee session held in May between MHA officials and delegates from the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA). Officials indicated that the dialogue aimed to advance the process of establishing a unique governance framework for the Union Territory.
Ashish Kundra, Ladakh’s Chief Secretary, conveyed a positive atmosphere during the talks, noting that the broad outlines of a “sui generis model of governance under Article 371 of the Constitution” were explored. He emphasized on the social media platform X that the overarching objective is the “deepening of democracy” within the region. Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that the discussions were a continuation of an in-principle understanding reached during meetings on May 22 and July 3, which focused on reinstating democratic processes in Ladakh and securing constitutional safeguards through special provisions under Article 371.
During the Wednesday meeting, the MHA outlined its proposal for a Union Territory-level body that would be directly elected. This elected body, as per the MHA’s stated intention, would possess legislative authority over critical areas such as land, culture, language, forests, environment, natural resources, and any other subjects designated for the Union Territory under Article 240 of the Constitution. Furthermore, the proposed UT-level elected body would be vested with executive, budgetary, planning, and financial powers, according to a joint statement issued by the LAB and KDA. This detailed proposal signifies a significant step in addressing the long-standing demands for greater autonomy and constitutional protection for Ladakh.
However, the LAB and KDA expressed concerns regarding the clarity of the proposed governance structure, particularly on aspects like law and order. They highlighted the absence of a clear definition for these areas, drawing a parallel to the governance model in the Union Territory of Puducherry, which they deemed essential for effective administration. This point underscores the need for comprehensive and unambiguous provisions to ensure proper governance and address the unique needs of Ladakh. The MHA’s assurance of further talks in early October, where a draft Article is expected to be discussed, indicates a commitment to resolving these outstanding issues.
In addition to governance, the MHA also addressed the issue of compensation for individuals affected during the September 2025 agitation. The Ministry assured that a compensation package for those who lost their lives and sustained injuries would be provided. The LAB and KDA, in their statement, urged for the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of all cases registered against individuals in connection with the September 2025 incident, rather than a phased approach. The MHA reportedly assured that this matter was under active consideration. The commitment to addressing these grievances is seen as a crucial element in fostering trust and moving forward constructively.
A significant point of contention and a clear stance from the LAB and KDA was their unanimous declaration that no major irreversible restructuring of governance mechanisms, land transfers, or similar administrative changes should be undertaken before the establishment of an elected body at the Union Territory level. They warned that any such unilateral actions prior to the constitution of the UT-level democratic body would compel them to initiate public protests against such moves. This firm position reflects the apprehension that interim administrative decisions could pre-empt or undermine the authority of the future elected government, thereby jeopardizing the democratic aspirations of the region. The MHA is expected to solicit further comments on broader issues from the LAB and KDA in the near future, paving the way for the next round of discussions.
Following the May meeting, leaders from the LAB and KDA had previously indicated that an understanding had been reached regarding the provision of constitutional safeguards for Ladakh. This latest round of talks builds upon that initial understanding, aiming to translate broad principles into concrete proposals for governance and constitutional protection. The ongoing dialogue signifies a crucial phase in shaping the future administrative and political landscape of Ladakh, with both sides working towards a mutually agreeable framework that respects the region’s distinct identity and democratic aspirations. The MHA’s commitment to further discussions and the potential for a draft Article in October suggest a structured approach to resolving these complex issues.
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.