Leh, Apr 27: The Leh Apex Body (LAB) has called for direct, “decision-level” talks with Union Home Minister Amit Shah during his upcoming visit, terming the proposed May 22 sub-committee meeting as “inadequate” to resolve Ladakh’s long-pending issues.
The reaction followed Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena’s announcement that the Ministry of Home Affairs will convene a sub-committee meeting on May 22 for political dialogue with representatives of agitating Ladakh groups. The previous meeting was held in early February.
LAB, along with the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), has been in talks with the Centre since 2021 over a four-point agenda, including statehood for Ladakh and safeguards under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
“LAB discussed in detail the Home Minister’s proposed visit to Ladakh on April 30, along with the announcement of the May 22 meeting. The issue of Ladakh has been pending for five to six years and needs resolution,” climate activist Sonam Wangchuk told reporters.
Wangchuk, accompanied by LAB co-chairman Chering Dorjay and other members, described the visit as an opportunity for “meaningful and constructive dialogue.” However, he expressed concern that discussions at the sub-committee level—primarily involving officials—lack decision-making authority.
“There is apprehension that even after the May 22 meeting, no concrete outcome may emerge, prolonging the process further,” he said, urging that the Home Minister himself chair a meeting with LAB and KDA during his visit.
He added that holding such a meeting in Ladakh would be both feasible and significant, noting that earlier interactions with the Home Minister had included assurances of direct engagement with Ladakh’s leadership.
Another LAB leader, Ashraf Barcha, said most issues have already been discussed in detail at previous meetings, and the focus should now shift to decision-making. “This is the right time to utilise the Home Minister’s visit for a joint बैठक under the High-Powered Committee framework, which would boost public confidence,” he said.
Wangchuk also emphasised the need for immediate trust-building measures, including the withdrawal of cases and compensation related to last year’s protests. He was detained under the National Security Act in September and later released in March after the Centre revoked his detention.
Reaffirming unity between LAB and KDA, Dorjay said both groups intend to present a common stand. “Our position is clear—the sub-committee meeting holds little value if no decisions are taken. The government must clarify its stand on our four key demands,” he said.
He added that if statehood or Sixth Schedule status is not being considered, the Centre should clearly outline alternative proposals.
Meanwhile, the LAB said it learned about the Home Minister’s visit and the proposed meeting through the Lieutenant Governor’s announcement.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to arrive in Leh on April 30 for a two-day visit. The LG said he will also pay respects to the sacred relics of Lord Buddha on the occasion of Buddha Purnima on May 1. (Agency)
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