Ladakh Leaders Launch 3 Day Hunger Strike for Statehood, Sixth Schedule Status

SRINAGAR: The Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and Leh Apex Body (LAB) on Saturday began a three-day hunger strike at Hussani Park, Kargil, demanding statehood for Ladakh, Sixth Schedule status, separate parliamentary seats for Kargil and Leh, and a full-fledged Public Service Commission.

Carrying banners reading “Together, we can build a future where Ladakh governs Ladakh”, protesters accused the Centre of delaying promised talks. KDA leaders Asgar Ali Karbalai and Sajjad Kargili alleged that despite assurances from the Ministry of Home Affairs in May, no progress had been made. Senior political figures, including MP Mohd Hanifa Jan, joined the strike, calling for an end to what they termed “colonial treatment” and for the restoration of democracy in Ladakh. (KINS)