Kargil in Ladakh shuts down over winter migration polls
Kargil in Ladakh is seeing a complete shutdown Tuesday, as locals push back against council elections being held during winter migration, when many residents leave town because of the harsh weather.
The protest, backed by political parties and community groups, centers on concerns that holding elections now could exclude a big chunk of voters.
Kargil leaders cite over 25% absenteeism
Leaders say over 25% of Kargil's population, especially older residents, will not be around to vote if elections go ahead as planned.
Sajjad Kargili, co-chairman of the Kargil Democratic Alliance, said "Our genuine demands have been ignored," and "The UT administration is issuing notifications every day and thus unilaterally imposing its decisions on the people of Ladakh."
There is even a candlelight march planned to make sure everyone is heard. Locals are hoping for new dates so everyone gets a fair say in their own future.