Rising Protests in Ladakh

Ladakh witnessed major protests in September 2025 after violent clashes in Leh. A BJP office was set on fire, and police action with teargas resulted in four deaths and thirty injuries. The Leh Apex Body (LAB) called for a shutdown, while activist Sonam Wangchuk ended a 15-day hunger strike urging peace. The unrest highlights long-standing discontent over Ladakh’s political status.

Political Background

In 2019, the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act revoked Article 370 and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories. While Jammu and Kashmir retained a legislature, Ladakh became a UT without one, under direct central administration. This lack of representation led to political dissatisfaction and calls for greater autonomy.

Static GK fact: Article 370 was originally included in 1949 to grant special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Demand for Sixth Schedule

Over 90% of Ladakh’s population belongs to Scheduled Tribes, making the region eligible for constitutional safeguards. The Sixth Schedule provides Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) with powers over land, forests, agriculture, health, and policing. At present, ADCs exist in six northeastern states, protecting tribal autonomy. Ladakh’s demand focuses on preventing land alienation and ensuring community-led development.

Static GK fact: The Sixth Schedule was introduced in 1952 based on recommendations of the Bordoloi Committee.

Role of Sonam Wangchuk

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, known for his innovations in Ladakh, has been central to the movement. He won the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2018 for education reforms. In 2019, he petitioned the Tribal Affairs Ministry for Ladakh’s inclusion in the Sixth Schedule, but no major progress was made. His campaigns stress the need for decentralisation and protection against industrial exploitation.

History of Protests

Since 2019, protests have mobilised students, local leaders, and religious groups. The LAB and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) emerged as key organisations. In 2024, hunger strikes and a proposed march to the China border drew national attention. Issues of land rights, industrial projects, and border security remain at the centre of these movements.

Static GK Tip: Ladakh shares borders with China’s Xinjiang and Tibet regions, making its security highly strategic.

Current Political Agenda

The LAB now demands statehood for Ladakh, Sixth Schedule inclusion, and recruitment through a Public Service Commission. Separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil are also sought. These demands reflect frustration over lost autonomy since 2019 and highlight the urgent need for self-governance and constitutional protection.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table