Activists Rally in Kargil for Full Statehood & Constitutional Safeguards for Ladakh

Kargil, September 16, 2025: A delegation of social and political activists from across India has thrown its weight behind the movement in Ladakh, calling for full statehood and constitutional protection under the Sixth Schedule. The group visited Kargil as part of a five-day programme titled “Understanding Ladakh,” during which they met local leaders, traders, community representatives and youth. The demand for full statehood comes amid growing discontent over what many locals see as marginalization in terms of jobs, political representation, and governance since Ladakh became a separate Union Territory in 2019. Activists argue that without statehood, institutions such as the Ladakh University and local administrative bodies lack the authority to make key decisions. Observers also point out that the absence of provisions like Schedule VI protection leaves local communities vulnerable in preserving their land rights, culture, and environment. Speakers at the Kargil meeting criticized what they call “broken promises” made during the 2019 reorganisation, including commitments around jobs and local governance. There has been particularly sharp concern over lack of new government appointments over years, limited political power in decision-making, and slow roll-out of developmental projects in remote areas. The delegation included voices from NGOs, student groups, academics, and political activists from various states. Their presence is intended both to draw national attention and to build solidarity across regions. Local leaders in Ladakh welcomed the support, noting that environmental fragility, altitude challenges and infrastructural constraints make any oversight or delay significantly more damaging here. Beyond advocacy, there is also a cultural appeal—activists emphasised the need to preserve Ladakh’s traditional systems, languages, and practices, many of which are under pressure from climate change, population shifts, and uncertain policy backing by central agencies. Protecting water sources, grazing lands, and wildlife corridors were also mentioned in the discussions. The Kargil Movement’s extension by this delegation is seen as part of a sustained push for constitutional safeguards that can provide more autonomy. While no immediate government response has been announced, the momentum suggests that this issue is likely to feature more prominently in upcoming policy debates around UT governance and rights in Ladakh.