Why is Ladakh’s tribal population restive?, Pg12.

Key Highlights:

• Sonam Wangchuk was on the 15th day of a 35-day hunger strike; protests led to 4 deaths and ~150 injuries.
• Protests linked to Ladakh’s demands for Statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule.
• Govt. formed a High-Powered Committee (HPC) in Jan 2023, reconstituted in Nov 2023 after criticism.
• June 2024: President notified four Regulations — reservation, domicile, languages, and hill council composition.
• Reforms included 85% job reservation for Ladakhis, 1/3rd reservation for women, official recognition of Bhoti & Purgi languages.
• Protest groups allege core demands remain unfulfilled despite concessions.
• MHA maintains Ladakh’s socio-economic development is being ensured through special funds and new policies.

Detailed Insights:

• Background: Ladakh became a UT without Assembly after abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, raising fears of loss of land, resources, and jobs to outsiders.
• Local demands: Ladakh groups (LAB, KDA) demand Statehood and Sixth Schedule protection, citing small tribal population (2.7 lakh in 2011 Census).
• Government’s measures: Reservations for tribals raised from 45% to 84%, women’s representation enhanced, and 1,800 posts created for locals.
• Tensions: Despite concessions, absence of legislative safeguards fuels unrest and distrust in the HPC mechanism.
• Security angle: NSA detention reflects state’s approach to maintain law and order but risks escalating regional alienation.
• Broader implication: Ladakh unrest highlights challenges of balancing integration with protection of regional identity and tribal rights in Union Territories.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• National Security Act (NSA), 1980: Preventive detention law allowing detention up to 12 months to prevent threats to public order or national security.
• Sixth Schedule: Constitutional provision granting autonomous councils in tribal areas (currently in NE states) to safeguard land, culture, and resources.
• Union Territory without Legislature: Unlike J&K or Delhi, Ladakh lacks an elected Assembly, making governance directly dependent on the Centre.