Rahul accuses BJP, RSS of attacking Ladakh’s people, their culture

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing the BJP and the RSS of attacking Ladakh’s people, and culture & traditions on Sunday, claimed that the people of Ladakh were demanding a voice.

In a post on handle X, Gandhi demanded that Ladakh be granted the 6th Schedule status, which would grant autonomous district councils control over land use, forests, and water resources.

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The protests that began for a peaceful demand for statehood and constitutional safeguards turned violent, resulting in the death of four young men and injuries to over 70 others and the jailing of Sonam Wangchuk

“Give Ladakh a voice. Give them the 6th Schedule,” Rahul Gandhi urged, emphasizing the need for greater autonomy and protection of the region’s unique identity. The 6th Schedule of the Indian Constitution grants autonomous district councils control over land use, forests, and water resources, which is a key demand of the people of Ladakh.

The violence erupted during a shutdown called by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) to press for statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule to Ladakh. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had been on a hunger strike for 15 days, called off his fast after the violence broke out. Wangchuk’s NGO, Students Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), had its FCRA license cancelled by the Home Ministry, sparking further controversy.

Key demands include:

Ladakhis are demanding full statehood, citing neglect and betrayal by the central government. The region seeks constitutional safeguards to protect its land, resources, and cultural identity. The protesters wanted to stop outsiders from buying property in Ladakh, preserving traditional livelihoods.

The situation remains tense even while the government has assured that the situation is under control. However, the protesters continue to demand justice and greater autonomy.