Source: The post Unrest in Ladakh has been created, based on the article “Ladakh protests: demand for statehood, sixth schedule inclusion.” published in “Indian Express” on 25 September 2025. Unrest in Ladakh.
UPSC Syllabus: GS-2- Governance- Issues and Challenges Pertaining to the Federal Structure
Context: The ongoing protests in Ladakh highlight a significant movement driven by local demands for greater autonomy.
Main Issues:
- Statehood Demand: The protests reflect a long-standing dissatisfaction with the existing Union Territory status of Ladakh, following its bifurcation from Jammu and Kashmir in 2019. Protesters demand statehood to better safeguard their political, social, and economic interests.
- Sixth Schedule Inclusion: A major aspect of the protest is the demand for Ladakh’s inclusion under the Sixth Schedule, which grants autonomy to tribal areas. Under this provision, regions like Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Tripura have legislative, judicial, and administrative powers.
- The Sixth Schedule is considered crucial for the protection of the region’s unique culture, land rights, and local governance. However, the central government is reluctant to extend these protections to Ladakh.
- The Home Ministry has proposed alternative solutions like domicile-based reservations and job safeguards, but this has not been accepted by local groups, who argue that these measures do not fully address their concerns.
- Political and Social Dynamics: Civil society groups in Ladakh maintain that the Sixth Schedule and statehood are necessary to preserve their cultural identity and to address growing concerns over unemployment and land rights.
Way Forward:
- Inclusive Dialogue: Engage all stakeholders, including local leaders and activists, in transparent and inclusive talks to address Ladakh’s demands for statehood and Sixth Schedule inclusion.
- Statehood and Sixth Schedule Review: Establish a commission to assess the feasibility of granting Ladakh statehood and extending Sixth Schedule protections to preserve its cultural and land rights.
- Economic Development and Employment: Focus on creating sustainable job opportunities and promoting local industries, ensuring Ladakhis have control over their land and resources.
- Political Unity: Bridge divides between local leaders to present a united front in negotiations with the government, ensuring broad representation of Ladakhi interests.
- Maintain Law and Order: Ensure peaceful protests are respected while the security forces maintain restraint, avoiding further escalation of violence and protecting citizens’ rights.
Question: Discuss the recent protests in Ladakh demanding statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule, and explain the central issues surrounding this movement.
