MHA to hold fresh Ladakh talks on September 9

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is set to hold further discussions with representatives from Ladakh on September 9 in Delhi, according to Ashish Kundra, the chief secretary of Ladakh. This meeting is part of the ongoing dialogue aiming to enhance democratic processes in the region. Post the abrogation of Article 370 and 35(A), Ladakh formed the Apex Body Leh and Kargil Democratic Alliance, advocating for statehood, inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, a separate Public Service Commission, and an increase in Lok Sabha seats.

Several protests have taken place over the years, with the central government initiating dialogue after a peaceful protest turned violent on September 24, 2025. This led to the killing of at least four civilians, injury of over 80, and arrest of 87 individuals, including Sonam Wangchuk. Following a judicial inquiry and the release of those booked for the incident, the dialogue resumed earlier this year.

Recently, FIRs against 25 people were revoked. During a recent meeting in New Delhi, Ladakh's representatives submitted a "non-negotiable" resolution demanding a legislative assembly for Ladakh, home affairs under the elected government like in Puducherry, and various constitutional safeguards. This comes as the Socialist Party and other civil and political organizations plan a padyatra from September 10 to 24 to support Ladakh's demand for statehood, Sixth Schedule, and justice for September 24 victims.

The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, has approved the creation of seven Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils (LAHDCs) across all seven districts of the Union Territory, aiming to decentralize governance and empower local self-governance.