Leh Apex Body withdraws from talks with Centre
What's the story
The Leh Apex Body (LAB) has decided to boycott upcoming talks with the central government. "As long as peace is not restored...we will not participate in any talks," Chairman of LAB Thupstan Chhewang said. The LAB is demanding an impartial judicial probe into the September 24 incident, when security forces fired on protesters in Leh, killing four and injuring 90. It has also sought an apology from the Centre for labeling Ladakhi protesters as "anti-national" and "playing in Pakistan's hands."
Protest mismanagement
KDA demands accountability for violence
The next round of negotiations between the Centre and representatives from Ladakh, including LAB and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) members, was scheduled for October 6. But following the protest, KDA has said that demands for statehood and constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule are "not negotiable." KDA leader Sajjad Kargili demanded accountability for the violence, saying, "The way bullets were fired, and many were injured, there should be some accountability... This is a big example of why we need democracy."
Activist's arrest
Tensions rise in Ladakh over Wangchuk's arrest
The arrest of prominent climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act has further fueled tensions in Ladakh. Wangchuk was shifted to Jodhpur jail after his arrest. His supporters claim that his detention has brought national attention to Ladakh's struggle for statehood and constitutional safeguards. The KDA is demanding the immediate release of Wangchuk and others detained after the September 24 violence.
Allegations refuted
LAB, KDA warn of alienation from India
Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, has strongly denied allegations linking him to Pakistan or inciting violence. She said he was protesting peacefully and blamed the escalation on CRPF action. "Who gave the CRPF the right to open fire on their own people, on their own youth?" she asked. The LAB and KDA have repeatedly warned that ignoring Ladakh's demands is "alienating" its people from India.
Statehood demand
Agitation for statehood continues
The agitation for Ladakh's statehood has been going on since the region was made a Union Territory after Article 370 was abrogated in 2019. Protesters are demanding statehood and protection under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. They are also seeking government jobs for the region's educated but unemployed youth, separate Lok Sabha representation for Leh and Ladakh, and climate protection for the ecologically sensitive region.