LAB Demands Action Ahead of MHA Talks on Sept 9

Ahead of a crucial meeting with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in New Delhi on September 9, the Leh Apex Body (LAB) has warned of escalating its agitation should the Centre fail to demonstrate progress on its vital demands.

The LAB, alongside the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), has passionately led calls for constitutional and political safeguards for Ladakh ever since the region attained Union Territory status in August 2019.

The group’s primary demands include the formation of legislation for Ladakh at the Union Territory level, protections under Article 371, withdrawal of cases related to the September 24 violence last year, adequate compensation for victims, and publication of the inquiry commission’s report into the incident.

LAB chairman Chering Dorje Lakruk expressed cautious optimism regarding the upcoming talks, insisting that the meeting’s success hinges on its outcomes. “If the meeting produces a positive outcome and there is constructive dialogue, we will welcome it. Otherwise, we will intensify our agitation very strongly,” Lakruk stated.

He lamented the delay in releasing the inquiry commission’s findings regarding the September 24 violence, during which four individuals lost their lives. Lakruk criticized the unresolved status of cases against those involved, highlighting perceived inconsistencies in the government’s approach. “While it is encouraging to hear about the withdrawal of cases concerning the July 20 incident in Delhi, the duality in treatment towards Ladakh is concerning,” he said.

According to Lakruk, only 25 of approximately 80 cases filed regarding last year’s unrest have been dismissed to date. “We are all Indians, and everyone should be treated equally. The lives of the people of Ladakh are not so cheap,” he added, reiterating the need for compensation for affected families.

On a related note, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk revealed that the LAB has declared September as “Martyrs’ Month,” commemorating those who faced violence and oppression last year. Plans have been initiated for various programs throughout the month, but a proposed padyatra from Kargil to Leh, originally set for September 10, has been postponed to accommodate the MHA discussions.

“We have collectively decided to postpone the padyatra for the time being,” Wangchuk confirmed, also mentioning that it could be rescheduled if the talks yield an unsatisfactory result. The march may occur approximately five days before the anniversary of the September 24 incident.

Wangchuk asserted that the LAB anticipates the government to present a comprehensive draft proposal pertaining to the anticipated Ladakh Assembly at the September 9 meeting. “If there is progress on these issues, we will regard the talks as successful,” he stated.

Furthermore, Wangchuk described the events surrounding the September 24 violence as “abnormal.” He suggested that the LAB might reveal pertinent information concerning the violence and subsequent acts of arson if necessary.

“If Ladakh continues to be treated differently, particularly with such a stark contrast in how we are managed compared to other regions, we will be compelled to instigate widespread agitation following September 9,” he warned.