The LAB and KDA called the bandh to highlight their concerns over the implementation of assurances made during a meeting with Union government representatives in New Delhi on May 22.
File Photo: IANS
Ladakh witnessed a complete shutdown on Tuesday as the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) called for a bandh, protesting a “delay” by the Centre in addressing the demands of the Union Territory’s people.
The shutdown impacted normal life across Leh and Kargil districts, with markets, shops, business establishments and commercial activities remaining closed in several areas.
Advertisement
People extended support to the shutdown call, leading to the closure of major commercial centres across the region. However, transport services largely continued to operate to reduce inconvenience for residents and tourists. There were no reports of any major untoward incidents during the shutdown.
Advertisement
The LAB and KDA called the bandh to highlight their concerns over the implementation of assurances made during a meeting with Union government representatives in New Delhi on May 22. The two organisations have also raised objections over inaccuracies and omissions in the official minutes of the meeting.
Leaders of the groups alleged that several important issues related to Ladakh’s political and constitutional future were either not included or were inadequately reflected in the official record, leading to increasing mistrust among stakeholders.
The agitation is linked to several demands raised by the LAB and KDA, including constitutional safeguards for Ladakh, protection of land and employment rights, greater participation of locals in governance and measures to protect the interests of residents.
The bandh was announced after a meeting of the joint core committee of the LAB and KDA, which expressed dissatisfaction over recent engagements with the Centre and warned against further delays.
LAB Chairman Kukreja Dorjey called the shutdown one of the most significant region-wide protests witnessed in Ladakh in recent months.
The representatives of LAB and KDA have also demanded statehood for Ladakh, inclusion under the 6th Schedule of the Constitution and protection of the region’s unique culture and heritage.
The organisations said the demands are aimed at ensuring stronger safeguards and representation for Ladakh’s people.
Advertisement
