Ladakh Talks Enter New Phase: Central Government Seeks Proposals on Constitutional Safeguards and Governance Arrangements

The ongoing talks between the central government and representatives of Ladakh have entered a new phase over the constitutional safeguards and governance arrangements for the union territory (UT). The Ministry of Home Affairs has asked Ladakh's key organisations - Leh Apex Body (LAB), Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and activist Sonam Wangchuk - to submit a draft proposal on 7 key points. Based on this proposal, the body will prepare a blueprint for the next round of meeting in October. During the recent meeting, the Ministry of Home Affairs outlined a three-tier administrative set-up in Ladakh, which will include a UT-level apex body, autonomous district councils and panchayats. The ministry has sought suggestions from Ladakh's representatives on naming the proposed apex body and its executive body. Opinions were sought on the method of election of UT-level body members. Ladakh's representatives have agreed that there should be direct elections for the UT-level body. UT-level bodies and district-level councils have also been asked to ensure better coordination and clarity on the principles of elected powers and functions across the region.