LAB and KDA Announce Peaceful March from Leh to Delhi for Ladakh’s Statehood and Other Demands

Leh, August 24: The Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), two prominent alliances of political, social, and religious organizations in Ladakh, have announced a peaceful march from Leh to Delhi to press for their longstanding demands, including statehood, the extension of the Constitution’s Sixth Schedule, an early recruitment process, and separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil districts.

The decision to march was made during an Apex body meeting two days ago. Speaking at a press conference, LAB co-chairman Chering Dorjey Lakruk confirmed that the march would commence on September 1 from Leh, with a minimum of 100 volunteers, including renowned climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, and will conclude in Delhi on October 2, Gandhi Jayanti. He did, however, note that the dates might change if the number of volunteers falls short but assured that the march would take place regardless.

“This march is in the spirit of Mahatma Gandhi’s doctrine of non-violence,” Wangchuk stated, emphasizing the peaceful nature of their protest. “We believe our issues are justified, democratic, and crucial for safeguarding the environment. We want the nation to hear our voice and urge the government to honor its promises and resume dialogue with our leaders.”

Wangchuk also warned that he might resort to another hunger strike if the Union government fails to engage in dialogue over their four-point agenda. “The LAB has decided not to go on a hunger strike for now, giving more time to the government. However, we are prepared for it if necessary,” he added.

Another LAB member, Sheikh Nazir, called for widespread participation in the march, revealing that KDA representatives would join them once they cross into Himachal Pradesh, as Jammu and Kashmir prepares for upcoming assembly elections. He also mentioned plans to meet BJP leadership in Ladakh and invite them to join the march.

This march comes after four years of agitation led by LAB and KDA, who have been advocating for Ladakh’s statehood and other critical demands following the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019. Since then, Ladakh has been functioning as a Union Territory without a legislature, despite its strategic location bordering Pakistan and China. The last round of talks between Ladakhi representatives and the Union government in March ended without a concrete outcome, fueling the current wave of protests.