Leh, Ladakh – Accusations of political targeting have emerged from Ladakh, with the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) alleging that climate activist Sonam Wangchuk is being unfairly targeted for advocating for the region’s democratic rights, constitutional safeguards, and political representation. The KDA, a political group advocating for greater autonomy for Ladakh, made these claims on Saturday during a protest in Leh, organized under the banner of the Leh Apex Body (LAB).
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Sajjad Kargili, co-chairman of the KDA, addressed demonstrators gathered for a three-day sit-in protest. The protest, led by LAB chairman Chering Dorje Lakruk, is intended to pressure the government for renewed dialogue on constitutional protections and the establishment of an elected territorial government headed by a Chief Minister. Kargili expressed solidarity with Wangchuk, who was escorted home by police on Wednesday amidst prohibitory orders ahead of upcoming local elections. He also highlighted that a group of religious leaders had commenced a hunger strike on Saturday in support of the demands.
Kargili criticized what he described as the double standards of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He recalled how Wangchuk was hailed as a hero for previously calling for a boycott of Chinese goods and for supporting the creation of the Union Territory of Ladakh. However, Kargili stated, when Wangchuk now articulates concerns about Ladakh’s constitutional rights, democracy, and political representation, he faces criticism and a perceived campaign against him through media platforms. Kargili asserted that Wangchuk is being targeted for his commitment to his homeland and his advocacy for the protection of Ladakh’s land and identity.
The KDA leader further leveled allegations against the Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena-led administration, accusing it of fostering bureaucratic authoritarianism in Ladakh. He reiterated the calls for the restoration of democracy, the safeguarding of land and identity, justice for individuals who died during protests on September 24, 2025, and the promotion of greater unity between the people of Leh and Kargil. Kargili refuted claims that the LAB-KDA movement is driven by a desire for political positions. He cited the case of late leader Qamar Ali Akhoon, noting his age and physical condition made such aspirations unlikely, and questioned the motives of Larkuk, the former minister leading the Leh protest, suggesting his sole aim is to protect Ladakh from powerful industrialists allegedly close to the government and to preserve its resources for future generations.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, Kargili characterized these accusations as attempts to mislead the public and create division between Leh and Kargil. He emphasized that while political leaders and governments may change, the nation, including Ladakh, will endure. He urged the people of Ladakh to unite in defending their land and collective interests, cautioning against aligning with those involved in a propaganda campaign against the Ladakh leadership engaged in government dialogue.
Drawing parallels with historical leaders, Kargili noted that no individual or political establishment is permanent, underscoring the paramount importance of the nation’s and its people’s broader interests. He alleged that individuals joining the BJP, including retired soldiers, are presented as patriots, while those raising concerns about Ladakh’s rights are subjected to criticism and propaganda. Kargili pointed to the death of a retired Army personnel during the September 24 protests in Leh as an example, questioning the lack of accountability and alleging disparate treatment of the incident.
The KDA highlighted the anticipation among the people of Ladakh for the release of the judicial inquiry report into the September violence, along with demands for adequate compensation and the withdrawal of cases. Kargili implored the residents of Ladakh to reflect on whether they would allow themselves to be divided along religious lines or stand united for their land and collective interests, emphasizing that the choice rests with them.
The Chenab Times News Desk
