Ladakh alliance rejects centre's draft, warns of protests over limited powers

The Kargil Democratic Alliance dismissed the Union government's draft governance framework for Ladakh, claiming it grants overriding powers to the lieutenant governor and bureaucracy while marginalising the elected body. The draft, unveiled on October 15, replaces earlier assurances of a "sui generis" UT model with legislative, executive and financial authority for elected representatives. Alliance co-convener Asgar Karbalai cited minutes from a May 22 meeting that had recorded a commitment to a customized structure and constitutional safeguards modelled on Articles 371 (A-J) as Article 371-K. Co-convener Sajjad Kargili called the draft an "attack on the rights of the people" and accused the centre of stealing representation.

The alliance warned of protests and shutdowns if the Home Ministry fails to honour the earlier agreement, after talks stalled following a sub-committee discussion with ministry officials. The dispute revives long-standing demands for statehood, Sixth Schedule protection, separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil, and a dedicated public service commission.