Discussions are underway between the Union Territory administration of Ladakh and regional representatives regarding the framework for constitutional safeguards for the region, potentially under a special provision of Article 371, and the establishment of a Union Territory-level elected body. The proposed body would be vested with legislative, executive, and financial powers.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra announced that the Centre and Ladakh’s representatives are actively working towards this framework following a sub-committee meeting with delegates from the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA). This meeting aimed to build upon progress made in previous dialogues.
The proposed political structure envisions the panchayat as the foundational unit, with the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDCs) positioned above them. The new UT-level body would sit atop this hierarchy. The Chief Secretary emphasized that the central government is not intending to impose any political model on Ladakh, stressing that any path forward will involve extensive consultation and deliberation with the stakeholders and the people of the Union Territory.
Elaborating on the constitutional safeguards, Kundra stated that a special provision under Article 371 is being considered. He explained that the core of Ladakh’s democratic movement centers on safeguarding the region’s land, culture, environment, and natural resources. These discussions are ongoing, with the next meeting scheduled for October, where an advanced draft of a Constitutional Amendment Bill is anticipated.
Representatives were also informed about the parliamentary procedures involved in constitutional amendments and the legislation required to define the powers of the proposed body. Kundra assured that both the UT administration and the Ministry of Home Affairs are making dedicated efforts to fulfill the democratic aspirations of the people of Ladakh.
Kundra further detailed that a prior meeting on July 3 had established the intent to form such a body. A key point of discussion was the election method for this UT-level body, with representatives from the Apex Body and KDA expressing a preference for direct elections from constituencies, a view that found agreement.
The dialogue’s primary objective is to address the people’s demands, particularly concerning the protection of land, culture, heritage, mineral resources, environment, and employment opportunities. For jobs, a unique reservation system already exists in Ladakh, distinct from systems elsewhere in the country. For other concerns, the central government has indicated that constitutional protection will be extended.
Questions remain regarding the demarcation of powers between the LAHDCs and the proposed UT-level body. A list of eight to ten such questions has been shared with the leaders, who are expected to deliberate, consult internally and with the public, and then convey their feedback to the government.
Kundra highlighted that this process involves a constitutional amendment, not ordinary legislation, necessitating a requisite parliamentary majority and broad political consensus. The amendment process will involve multiple stages, beginning with major provisions integrated via the constitutional amendment, followed by specific legislation and regulations tailored for Ladakh. The draft constitutional amendment bill will only proceed once consensus is achieved on the fundamental principles.
He reiterated that the central government’s stance is to avoid imposing any model that is not acceptable to the people, prioritizing a path forward through collective consultation. Kundra urged patience, suggesting that haste could lead to an arrangement that may be difficult to alter in the future.
The Chenab Times News Desk