Centre agrees to discuss 4-point agenda with Ladakhi leaders

New Dehli, Dec 03: Government of India has agreed to discuss a four-point agenda with Ladakhi leaders during a crucial meeting held on Tuesday at the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in North Block, New Delhi.
The meeting, chaired by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai, marked a major step forward in addressing the constitutional and administrative future of Ladakh.
The talks involved key representatives from the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), who have been advocating for solutions to pressing issues in the region. These include rising unemployment, the lack of a Public Service Commission, overaged youth concerns, the absence of legislative representation, and the demand for essential constitutional safeguards.
One of the major outcomes of the meeting was the government’s assurance of 95% reservation in jobs and education for Ladakhi aspirants, a significant concession aimed at addressing unemployment and providing opportunities for the youth. Additionally, both sides agreed to continue the dialogue, with the next round of talks scheduled for 15 January 2025.
The Government of India has also announced one-third reservation for women in the LAHDC, with Bhoti and Urdu as official languages of UT Ladakh, while recommending the inclusion of Purgi, Shina, and Balti as additional official languages.
Renowned social activist Sajjad Kargili, Posting on “X” (formerly Twitter), “Today’s meeting was highly productive, as the Government of India has agreed to discuss the four-point agenda proposed by the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and the Leh Apex Body.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Government of India, particularly to the Hon’ble Prime @narendramodi and Union Home Minister @AmitShah Mos Home @nityanandraibjp ji, for their commitment to ensuring 95% job reservations for Ladakhis in Ladakh. 1/3 reservation for women in LAHDC , Bhoti and Urdu as Offical languages of UT Ladakh while as we have recommended to include Purgi, Shina and Balti also.”