JAMMU, Feb 15: Fresh strains have surfaced between the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and Ladakh’s prominent civil and political groupings, the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance, as both sides appear to be moving towards another phase of confrontation over the region’s constitutional future. While the Centre has not formally rejected the demands for Statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, it has shown no inclination to concede them at this stage. The twin Ladakh bodies, on the other hand, have made it clear that they are unwilling to consider alternatives such as enhanced powers to the Hill Councils or changes in their nomenclature.
The differences came into sharper focus following the February 4 meeting of the High Powered Committee held in New Delhi under the chairmanship of Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai. According to sources familiar with the deliberations, the Centre proposed significantly strengthening the Autonomous Hill Development Councils and granting them powers almost equivalent to that of a State Government. However, representatives of the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance reportedly declined to engage with the proposal, reiterating that their core demands remain Statehood for Ladakh and protection under the Sixth Schedule.
Leaders of both bodies have clarified that their demands have not been formally rejected during the discussions. At the same time, they underscored that empowerment of the Hill Councils cannot be viewed as a substitute for full Statehood and constitutional safeguards for the region’s tribal population. They have maintained that any long term solution must address political representation, legislative authority and protection of land and employment rights.
The uncertainty has been compounded by the absence of a confirmed date for the next round of talks. During the February 4 meeting, the Centre had reportedly indicated that another dialogue would be convened within 15 to 20 days. However, no formal communication has been received so far by the Ladakh bodies. In the event of further delay, the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance are expected to convene a joint meeting to chart their future course of action. At present, the Kargil Democratic Alliance is also observing mourning following the sudden demise of its chairman, Qamar Ali Akhoon, which has temporarily slowed internal consultations.
Official sources indicate that the Centre is prepared to offer expanded financial and administrative authority to the Hill Councils. The proposal reportedly includes granting Chairpersons and Vice Chairpersons ranks equivalent to Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, along with enhanced fiscal autonomy. However, the Ladakh bodies have conveyed that such measures, while significant, do not fulfil their demand for full constitutional recognition and safeguards.
At present, Ladakh has two Autonomous Hill Development Councils, one each in Leh and Kargil. While the Kargil Council continues to function, the Leh Council ceased to exist in October 2025 after completing its five year term, as elections were deferred following the announcement of five new districts in the Union Territory. In August 2024, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced the creation of Sham, Changthang and Nubra in Leh district, and Zanskar and Drass in Kargil, increasing the total number of districts in Ladakh to seven.
Sources suggest that the Centre is open to extending the Hill Council framework to all seven districts, subject to consensus. Another possibility under consideration is retaining two primary Councils for Leh and Kargil, with the newly created districts integrated within their jurisdiction. However, no formal decision has yet been taken.
The Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance had submitted a draft proposal to the Ministry of Home Affairs in November last year, reiterating their demand for Statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule to ensure protection of Ladakh’s unique cultural and tribal identity. The last round of formal talks prior to February 4 had been held on October 22, 2025.
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