The Congress party has called on the Indian government to urgently address the legitimate aspirations of the people of Ladakh, following distressing protests that escalated into violence. On Friday, Congress voiced its concerns about the anguish felt by Ladakh’s citizens, urging the government to do more than engage in dialogues without delivering real solutions.
This statement follows violent protests on Wednesday demanding statehood, which resulted in the tragic death of four individuals and left at least 90 others injured. The party’s general secretary in-charge of communications, Jairam Ramesh, expressed deep concern over the rising discontent in the Union Territory.
Ramesh highlighted that six years ago, when Ladakh attained the status of a Union Territory, residents held significant hopes for better governance and local rights. However, disillusionment has since set in, primarily due to threats to their land and employment rights.
“The people of Ladakh have witnessed a troubling takeover of local administration by the Lieutenant Governor and bureaucrats, undermining elected bodies,” Ramesh stated on social media platform X. He condemned the perceived delay in addressing crucial demands, including the protection of their rights under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and the establishment of an elected legislature.
The Congress leader also expressed concerns about the growing uncertainty in the region, particularly citing China’s aggressive actions along the Line of Actual Control. He criticized Prime Minister Modi, referencing a “clean chit” offered to China during a June 2020 meeting, which Ramesh believes has contributed to the instability in Ladakh.
Ladakh, known for its rich cultural, economic, and strategic significance, has seen its residents remain staunch supporters of India. “They have always been fiercely proud of their Indian identity,” Ramesh noted. He stressed that the government’s conscience must be awakened by the prevailing distress and anguish among the populace.
On Thursday, an uneasy calm returned to the region after police and paramilitary forces imposed a strict curfew in Leh town to maintain order following the unrest. As part of the authorities’ response to the violence, more than 50 individuals have reportedly been detained in connection with the protests.
The Leh Apex Body (LAB), spearheading the protests, demanded not only statehood but also an extension of the Sixth Schedule to safeguard their rights and autonomy. With the situation evolving, many residents express fear and uncertainty about their future.
