Ladakh Chief Secretary Denies Speculative Reports, Affirms Constructive Dialogue
In a significant clarification, Ladakh Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra took to social media platform X on Friday to address what he termed as "speculative media reports" regarding the recent high-power committee (HPC) discussions on Ladakh. Kundra emphasized that the February 4 meeting, which included representatives from the Union Home Ministry as well as key Ladakhi bodies such as the Apex Body Leh (ABL) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), was conducted in a wholesome and constructive manner.
Government's Commitment to Democratic Consultation
Kundra's post on X stated, "Contrary to speculative media reports on the ongoing talks in HPC, the Delhi meeting with ABL & KDA was cordial and constructive. Government is actively engaged with all stakeholders of Ladakh in a democratic spirit. Rumours and twisted narratives are avoidable at this juncture." This statement directly countered a report published by The Times of India on Thursday, which had claimed that the Centre had explicitly rejected demands for Sixth Schedule status or statehood for Ladakh during the February 4 talks, instead proposing a "territorial council model."
Clarifications from Ladakhi Leaders
Echoing Kundra's sentiments, KDA leader Sajjad Kargili also posted on X, clarifying that "during the Feb 4 HPC meeting, no expression such as 'rejection' was used." Kargili elaborated, "The government raised certain objections and reservations regarding our draft...We presented and defended our demands with utmost sincerity and clarity. The next step now rests with the Centre to place its proposal before us. At the same time, we have clearly conveyed our position that the proposal of Article 371 along with a territorial council is not acceptable to us." This highlights the ongoing dialogue and the firm stance of Ladakhi groups on their core demands.
Background on Sixth Schedule and Statehood Demands
In a television interview following the February 4 dialogue, Chief Secretary Kundra provided further context. He noted that while ABL and KDA had reiterated their demand for Sixth Schedule status in their proposal presented at the HPC meeting, representatives from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) explained that the Sixth Schedule was originally inserted into the Constitution specifically for the northeastern region, aimed at protecting the rights of minority tribes within a state or union territory. Kundra pointed out, "Nowhere else in the country is a whole territory under the Sixth Schedule," suggesting a need for alternative frameworks tailored to Ladakh's unique circumstances.
Financial and Administrative Considerations
Addressing the statehood demand, Kundra raised practical concerns regarding Ladakh's financial sustainability. He revealed that Ladakh's internal budget generation is merely Rs 1,000 crore, posing a significant challenge. "Can Ladakh be run on this small budget? We have to think about GPF and pension liability of government servants in Ladakh, which is currently borne entirely by the Centre," he pointed out. This underscores the complex balance required between financial viability and democratic aspirations.
Exploring Various Governance Models
Kundra confirmed that the discussions encompassed several potential models for Ladakh's future governance. These included protection under Article 371, strengthening of existing district councils, creation of a territorial council, or establishing a union territory with a legislature. He urged all parties to approach the issue with an open mind, stating, "We have to balance financial sustainability, democratic rights, cultural preservation, land rights and employment opportunities." This reflects a holistic view aimed at finding a solution that best serves the interests of the Ladakhi people.
The ongoing HPC talks represent a critical juncture in Ladakh's political landscape, with the government emphasizing dialogue and consultation over hasty decisions. As stakeholders continue to engage, the focus remains on achieving a consensus that addresses both the region's aspirations and its practical realities.
