A complete shutdown paralyzed Ladakh as per the call by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) to express discontent over the Centre’s delay in meeting the region’s demands. The shutdown impacted daily life in Leh and Kargil districts, with markets, businesses, and commercial activities shuttered in solidarity with the protest. Despite this, transportation services operated to minimize inconvenience for the public and tourists.
The LAB and KDA initiated the shutdown to voice their frustration regarding delays in implementing promises made during a meeting with Union government representatives on May 22 in New Delhi. They criticized the inaccuracies in the official meeting minutes, claiming that crucial issues concerning Ladakh’s political and constitutional future were either omitted or inadequately represented. This discrepancy has led to a sense of distrust among stakeholders in the region.
The protest is part of a series of longstanding demands advocated by the LAB and KDA, encompassing constitutional protections for Ladakh, safeguarding land and employment rights, enhancing local involvement in governance, and other measures to uphold the region’s residents’ interests. The joint core committee of LAB and KDA, dissatisfied with recent interactions with the Centre, announced the shutdown to emphasize the urgency of addressing Ladakh’s concerns.
LAB Chairman Kukreja Dorjey highlighted the significance of the shutdown, labeling it as a substantial region-wide demonstration in Ladakh, reflecting ongoing public apprehension regarding unresolved governance, constitutional safeguards, and regional representation issues. No major incidents were reported during the shutdown, emphasizing the peaceful nature of the protest.
In addition to seeking statehood, LAB and KDA representatives have urged inclusion in the 6th Schedule of the Constitution and protection for Ladakh’s unique culture and heritage.
