Political Dialogue Gains Momentum
Article 371 Proposal for Ladakh Sparks Statehood Debate: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has initiated talks with the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), proposing an Article 371-like provision for Ladakh. This offer comes in the wake of violent protests that claimed four lives, including that of a Kargil war veteran, amid widespread demands for statehood and tribal protection.
Ladakh has been functioning as a Union Territory without a legislature since the 2019 reorganisation of Jammu & Kashmir. The move, though initially celebrated by some, has since led to mounting dissatisfaction over land rights, cultural identity, and political representation.
Static GK fact: Article 371 provisions were first introduced in 1950 to address the administrative and cultural concerns of individual Indian states after independence.
The Core Demands of Leh and Kargil
Both the LAB and KDA have formed a rare united front, pushing for:
- Full statehood for Ladakh
- Sixth Schedule status for tribal rights and land protection
- Release of detained activists, including climate activist Sonam Wangchuk
- Compensation for victims of police action during protests
These demands emphasize the people’s desire for self-governance and legal safeguards against unchecked land acquisitions and external influence.
Static GK Tip: The Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution was created to protect the tribal way of life in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.
Understanding Article 371 and Its Implications
Article 371 grants special provisions to certain Indian states to preserve their social, cultural, and economic interests. It is currently applicable to 12 states, including Nagaland, Mizoram, Sikkim, and Assam, allowing flexibility in local governance and administrative control.
However, activists argue that Article 371 falls short of offering legislative autonomy comparable to the Sixth Schedule, which empowers Autonomous District Councils with control over land, forests, and community laws.
Static GK fact: Article 371(A) specifically protects Nagaland’s customary laws and land ownership from central interference.
Sixth Schedule vs Article 371 Debate
The government’s proposal has opened a constitutional debate. The Sixth Schedule, framed under Article 244, is regarded as a stronger safeguard for tribal areas. It ensures greater decentralisation, enabling communities to frame their own laws and manage natural resources.
In contrast, Article 371 provides cultural and administrative flexibility but keeps significant power with the Union government. The Ladakh leadership believes that without legislative autonomy, the unique tribal and ecological identity of the region remains vulnerable.
The Road Ahead for Ladakh
While the Centre’s offer marks a shift in stance, the Ladakh leadership remains firm on its dual demand for statehood and Sixth Schedule protection. A decision balancing constitutional provisions with local aspirations will be crucial for maintaining peace and trust in the strategically important Himalayan region.
Static GK Tip: Ladakh shares borders with both China (Aksai Chin) and Pakistan (Gilgit-Baltistan), making it one of India’s most sensitive border zones.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Article 371 Proposal for Ladakh Sparks Statehood Debate:
| Topic | Detail |
| Ministry involved | Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) |
| Local bodies | Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) |
| Core demand | Statehood and Sixth Schedule status |
| Government offer | Article 371-like provisions |
| States under Article 371 | 12 Indian states including Nagaland, Mizoram, Assam, Sikkim |
| Sixth Schedule applicability | Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram |
| Key activist | Sonam Wangchuk |
| Year of J&K Reorganisation | 2019 |
| Reason for protests | Lack of land, job, and cultural safeguards |
| Strategic importance | Borders China and Pakistan, vital Himalayan region |
