Ladakh groups pull out of talks with Centre
Ladakh's top local groups—the Apex Body of Leh and the Kargil Democratic Alliance—have pulled out of talks with the Centre, set for October 6.
This move follows protests in Leh on September 24, where four people lost their lives in police firing during violent protests.
The groups have been demanding statehood and stronger constitutional safeguards.
The main ask: inclusion under the Sixth Schedule, which would give Ladakh more control over its own affairs.
Limited protections under Article 371
The Centre is offering limited protections under Article 371, but that doesn't grant as much self-governance as the Sixth Schedule.
Since Ladakh became a Union Territory in 2019, locals say they've lacked real political power and want guaranteed rights over jobs, land, and culture.
The deadlock highlights deep worries about being sidelined in decisions that shape their future—especially in such a sensitive region.