New Delhi: Ashish Kundra, the newly appointed Chief Secretary of Ladakh, has officially assumed his responsibilities, outlining a clear set of priorities for the Union Territory. His arrival comes during a period of significant public unrest and political demands.
Addressing Public Aspirations and Preserving Peace
In his initial statements, Kundra emphasized that addressing the legitimate aspirations of Ladakh's people will be a central focus of his administration. He notably highlighted the region's deep-rooted legacy, stating that its "civilisational history of peace must be treasured and preserved." This remark is seen as a crucial message aimed at fostering dialogue and calm.
The senior IAS officer steps into his role at a critical juncture. The region has witnessed heightened tensions due to persistent demands from two key groups—the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA). These organizations have been spearheading a movement seeking full statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which provides protections for tribal areas.
A Backdrop of Protest and Arrests
The situation turned violent on September 24, when four individuals participating in statehood protests were killed in an alleged police firing incident. The aftermath of this tragedy saw a wave of arrests, with over 70 people taken into custody. Among those detained was prominent climate activist and Leh Apex Body member Sonam Wangchuk.
Kundra, who previously served as the Principal Secretary to Delhi Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena, now faces the immediate challenge of navigating this sensitive political landscape while ensuring governance and development continue.
Ecological Concerns Take Center Stage
Beyond the political demands, the Chief Secretary also drew urgent attention to Ladakh's fragile environment. Issuing a stern warning, he cautioned against "reckless construction in the name of development." This statement underscores a growing concern about balancing infrastructural growth with the preservation of the region's unique and vulnerable ecosystem.
His dual focus—on public sentiment and ecological sustainability—sets the tone for an administration that must carefully manage both human and environmental resources. The path forward for Ladakh will depend heavily on how these intertwined priorities of statehood, peace, and environmental protection are addressed in the coming months.
