Ladakh Delegation, Including Sonam Wangchuk, Meets Home Ministry on Statehood Demands
Representatives from the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance return to the negotiating table with the Home Ministry on May 22, 2026. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk joins the delegation to press for Ladakh’s statehood and constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule. Ladakh leaders to meet Home Ministry officials on May 22, Sonam Wangchuk part of delegation This is the first such meeting of members of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic.
Following a hiatus since February 4, 2026, the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) have resumed formal talks with the Union Home Ministry. These groups are pushing for a four-point charter: the grant of statehood, inclusion in the Sixth Schedule, local job reservations, and dedicated parliamentary representation for both Leh and Kargil.
Since Ladakh became a Union Territory without a legislature in 2019, locals have raised concerns regarding cultural identity and land security. The Sixth Schedule is the core of their demand, as it would empower Autonomous District Councils to manage land and local governance. Given the region’s strategic border location, the government’s response to these requests carries significant weight for regional security and administrative policy.
| Entity | Role |
|---|---|
| Leh Apex Body (LAB) | Representing Leh’s community leadership |
| Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) | Representing Kargil’s political and religious interests |
| Ministry of Home Affairs | Central government representative |
| Civil Society | Led by Sonam Wangchuk |
Glossary
Sixth Schedule: A provision under Article 244 of the Indian Constitution that provides for the administration of tribal areas through Autonomous District Councils.
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