Leh, Nov 10: Ladakh Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra on Tuesday asserted that the upcoming elections for the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) on December 4 represent a crucial step towards deepening democracy and fortifying democratic institutions within the Union Territory. He urged all sections of Ladakhi society, including the youth and religious organizations, to participate actively in the electoral process.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that prior to the LAHDC elections, Ladakh will witness panchayat and municipal polls on November 21. The election schedule for the eight LAHDCs was announced by the Ladakh administration amidst opposition from various groups, particularly in Kargil, which observed a complete shutdown protesting the holding of elections during the winter months.
Several prominent groups, including the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance, have formally requested the postponement of the polls until after the winter season concludes. Addressing these concerns regarding winter elections, the Chief Secretary indicated that educational institutions in Ladakh typically continue to function until mid-December, suggesting that adults should not face significant difficulties in exercising their right to vote on December 4.
Kundra assured voters that the administration has directed all deputy commissioners to implement comprehensive arrangements at polling stations. These measures are intended to ensure voter comfort and accessibility, including the provision of heating facilities and separate queues for senior citizens.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the election timeline, Kundra explained that the timely establishment of elected councils is vital for them to commence budget preparations for the upcoming financial year during January, February, and March. He warned that if the councils are constituted after this period, the entire budget preparation cycle could be missed, potentially leading to a year-long delay.
The Chief Secretary also refuted any suggestions that the newly elected LAHDCs would not possess their full executive powers. He clarified that the authority vested in the councils under existing legislation would remain unchanged. Furthermore, he stated that the elected bodies would exercise powers not only as defined by the relevant Act but also those designated for District Panchayats under the 73rd Constitutional Amendment.
Referencing the broader democratic aspirations within Ladakh, Kundra acknowledged that the lack of fully functional democratic institutions has been a persistent concern raised in discussions with stakeholders, including the Apex Body. He reiterated the Government of India’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions in Ladakh and ensuring their swift establishment.
Kundra pointed out that panchayat elections have not been conducted in the region for the past three years, describing the forthcoming electoral exercises as a significant opportunity to bolster democratic participation and governance at the grassroots level. He encouraged widespread public turnout to ensure the success of the elections, expressing a vision for Ladakh to be recognized for a substantial deepening of its democratic processes by the end of 2026.
Regarding the issue of Nautor land regulations, Kundra stated that draft regulations have been formulated with the aim of resolving a long-standing complex problem for individuals holding such land without clear ownership titles, which hinders their ability to monetize their properties. He mentioned that the administration has received public suggestions and that the final regulations will be developed in consultation with the newly elected LAHDCs, following indications from Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena.
The Chenab Times News Desk
