Ladakh representatives have described the September 9 Sub-Committee meeting with the Government as “positive, cordial and constructive,” saying significant progress was made on the Union Territory’s long-standing demands, including a Legislative Assembly and constitutional safeguards.
Former Ladakh MP Thupstan Chhewang and former Leh Chief Executive Councillor Tashi Gyalson, while briefing the media in New Delhi, said the discussions were held in a conducive atmosphere and reflected the Government’s willingness to engage seriously with Ladakh’s representatives.
According to the leaders, the Government adopted an encouraging approach towards the major issues raised during the deliberations and indicated its intention to work towards a mutually acceptable and sustainable way forward.
Particular emphasis was placed on assurances regarding the establishment of a Legislative Assembly at the Union Territory level and the provision of appropriate constitutional safeguards for Ladakh under Article 371/K.
Chhewang and Gyalson said such safeguards would be aimed at protecting Ladakh’s land and employment opportunities while preserving the region’s distinctive cultural identity, traditions and fragile ecological environment.
The leaders said the major demands presented by Ladakh’s representatives received due consideration and that the discussions remained focused on the aspirations and interests of the people of the Union Territory.
They termed the outcome an important positive development in the continuing dialogue between Ladakh and the Government and expressed optimism that the assurances would now lead to further discussions and concrete measures.
Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the Government’s response and said they hoped the commitments and assurances emerging from the September 9 deliberations would be taken forward in a time-bound manner.
