Ahead of ‘firing’ deaths anniversary, promise of Article 371 framework for Ladakh

Two days before the first anniversary of four deaths in police firing on protestors demanding Sixth Schedule status and statehood in Ladakh on September 24, authorities announced a new framework under Article 371. Ladakh chief secretary Ashish Kundra spoke to prominent community members in Leh, emphasizing the need for safeguards covering land, employment, culture, environment, and natural resources.

Kundra noted that such a framework unique to Ladakh's aspirations does not exist elsewhere in the country. The proposed framework will be discussed in the first week of October, following a meeting with Ladakh groups on September 9 with the Centre. Kundra suggested direct elections to a proposed UT-level body as a key aspect of the framework, with further steps including consideration of a constitutional amendment by Parliament.

The Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) have been negotiating autonomy with the Union home ministry since 2023, a process halted after the incidents of police firing. One of LAB's members, Sonam Wangchuk, was arrested and charged under NSA, although the Centre revoked his detention in March. Kundra also highlighted recent administrative improvements, a rise in tourist arrivals, and urged civil society to join efforts in combating drug-related issues.