2025 in Ladakh: Unrest, Governance Challenges, and Economic Setbacks

Leh, Dec 30: Ladakh’s 2025 was marked by political unrest, governance challenges, and economic setbacks, thrusting the Union Territory into the national spotlight. The year saw rare violent protests in Leh over statehood and constitutional safeguards, the postponement of Hill Council elections, and tourism losses following the Pahalgam terror attack.

As the year closes, residents hope for dialogue, inclusivity, and a revival of economic and cultural life under the leadership of Lt Governor Kavinder Gupta, who took office in July, succeeding Brigadier B.D. Mishra (retd).

Political Agitation and Unrest
Six years after the abrogation of Article 370 and the creation of the UT of Ladakh in 2019, 2025 was dominated by a mass movement led by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA). Protesters demanded full statehood, inclusion under the Sixth Schedule, and protection of land and jobs.

Tensions peaked on September 24 when demonstrations in Leh turned violent, leaving four people dead, dozens injured, and government property damaged, including a BJP office and security vehicles. Curfews, mobile internet suspensions, and detentions followed, including that of renowned climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, now under Supreme Court review.

Internal anxieties also surfaced. In Muslim-majority Kargil, leaders raised concerns over uneven development and resource allocation, while some groups in Leh felt Buddhist voices were marginalised in talks with the Centre. Despite these tensions, LAB and KDA stressed unity, aiming to address regional and community concerns collectively.

Governance Shifts
The appointment of senior BJP leader Gupta as Lt Governor marked a shift from bureaucratic to political leadership, raising expectations for dialogue alongside scepticism after administrative changes curtailed local financial powers. Gupta assured that stakeholder proposals submitted to the Union Home Ministry were being reviewed to address statehood, constitutional safeguards, and local job reservations.

The Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Leh, completed its five-year term on October 30. Elections were postponed, with the Deputy Commissioner administering affairs until new polls. The Centre also approved five new districts for Ladakh (three in Leh, two in Kargil), expected to enhance governance and service delivery, though creation is pending.

Women’s representation advanced with the announcement of 33% reservation in both Hill Councils, while municipalities and panchayats had completed their terms in late 2023. The Lt Governor confirmed steps to implement the new districts and improve infrastructure and human resources.

Climate and Strategic Concerns
Ladakh faced unusually heavy rainfall, triggering flash floods, damaging infrastructure, and isolating villages. Scientists warned of accelerated climate risks threatening glaciers, water security, and traditional livelihoods.

Strategic infrastructure development continued, with the Border Roads Organisation upgrading high-altitude roads and passes, enhancing connectivity for remote communities and military logistics along the Line of Actual Control with China.

Economy and Culture
Tourism, a key economic lifeline, struggled to recover due to political unrest and climate concerns, though the Ladakh Festival 2025 showcased local culture, crafts, and sports.

Outlook for 2026
The year ended with an uneasy calm, but political, environmental, and economic debates in Ladakh are expected to continue into 2026, shaping the region’s trajectory and its relationship with the central government.