A powerful three-day hunger strike commenced in Kargil’s Hussani Park on Saturday, as the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and Leh Apex Body (LAB) united to press for long-overdue demands: statehood for Ladakh, inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil, and the establishment of a dedicated Public Service Commission (PSC). The protest, marked by passionate slogans and placards declaring "End Colonial Treatment, Restore Democracy," reflects growing frustration with the Central Government’s delays in addressing these critical issues.

The KDA and LAB, representing the collective voice of Ladakh’s people, have been advocating for these demands for over five years. Their agitation has included protests, foot marches from Ladakh to Delhi, and multiple rounds of talks with the Ministry of Home Affairs’ High-Powered Committee (HPC). Despite assurances from HPC Chairman and Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai in May 2025 that discussions on statehood and Sixth Schedule status would resume, no progress has been made, fueling public discontent.

Asgar Ali Karbalai, Co-chairman of the KDA, emphasized the urgency of the situation: “Our core demands—statehood and Sixth Schedule protections—have not been seriously addressed in four years. The government’s promises remain unfulfilled, leaving us no choice but to intensify our agitation.” Karbalai highlighted the hunger strike as part of a broader movement, warning that further action, including potential region-wide shutdowns, could follow if the government continues to stall.

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The Sixth Schedule, which provides autonomous governance and safeguards for tribal areas, is seen as vital for preserving Ladakh’s unique cultural and environmental heritage. Statehood, meanwhile, would grant Ladakh greater administrative autonomy, addressing grievances over centralized control since its designation as a Union Territory in 2019. The demand for separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil stems from the need for equitable representation, while a PSC would ensure local recruitment and fair access to government jobs.

Sajjad Kargili, another prominent KDA leader, accused the government of treating Ladakh with a “colonial mindset” and failing to honor commitments. “We are protesting peacefully, but our patience is wearing thin. Ladakh deserves democracy and the protections promised under the Sixth Schedule,” he said, urging the government to act swiftly.

The hunger strike has drawn significant local support, with residents gathering at Hussani Park, chanting slogans and holding banners that read “Strong Ladakh, Statehood Now.” The KDA and LAB’s core committees are set to meet soon to plan further actions, signaling that the movement is far from over. As Ladakh’s agitation gains momentum, the Central Government faces increasing pressure to address the region’s demands and restore trust among its people.

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