Seek ‘complete autonomy’: Leh, Kargil pass resolution for separate division for Ladakh region

Seek ‘complete autonomy’: Leh, Kargil pass resolution for separate division for Ladakh region

News:

Recently the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Kargil and Leh passed a resolution demanding divisional status for Ladakh.

Important Facts:

1. Ladakh is currently administered by Divisional Commissioner Kashmir.
2. If divisional status is provided, there will be separate Divisional Commissioner for Ladakh region besides separate Directorates and heads of around 40 departments

Why the demand for separate divisional status?

1. Unequal development: There has been concerns over unequal and poor development of the region and the members of the LAHDC accuse that the problems of the region have never been effectively addressed by the administrative machinery and developmental focus has been biased in favour of Ladakh and Kashmir valley.
2. Governance Issues: Implementation of developmental schemes and programmes have not got required impetus due absence of prompt resolution of issues, as under the present administrative set-up officials are required to visit summer and winter capitals to approach concerned Heads of the Departments.
3. Geography: Given the lack of infrastructural development, geography of the region makes it tedious and impractical for people to travel to distant headquarters for petty administrative work.
4. Culture: As the Ladakh region has a distinct culture from the valley region, there has always been a demand for separate administration by Ladakhi people.