Mon Nov 17 17:49:27 UTC 2025: ## News Article Summary:

Leh Apex Body Submits Proposal Demanding Statehood and Amnesty for Ladakh

The Leh Apex Body (LAB), representing social, political, and religious groups in Ladakh, has submitted a 29-page proposal to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) demanding full statehood and the implementation of the Sixth Schedule for the region. The proposal also seeks a general amnesty for those arrested or facing charges following the September 24th violence in Leh, which erupted over delays in talks regarding statehood. A key point of contention is the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA). Talks between the LAB, the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), and the MHA resumed in October after a previous deadlock, with the aim of resolving the long-standing demands for greater autonomy and protections for Ladakh’s unique cultural identity.

Rewritten News Article:

Ladakh Group Pushes for Statehood, Seeks Amnesty in Proposal to Indian Government

Srinagar – November 17, 2025 – The Leh Apex Body (LAB), a coalition of influential groups in Ladakh, has formally presented a comprehensive proposal to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) demanding full statehood for the region and the implementation of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which provides special provisions for tribal areas.

The 29-page document submitted Monday evening also calls for a general amnesty for individuals arrested or facing charges in connection with the violence that occurred in Leh on September 24th. The unrest stemmed from frustration over perceived delays in government negotiations regarding Ladakh’s future status.

“We have highlighted the critical importance of Statehood and Sixth Schedule protections for Ladakh in our proposal,” stated Chering Dorjay Lakruk, LBA President and LAB co-chairman. “We believe that granting amnesty to those involved in the September incident would be a crucial step towards reconciliation and healing.”

The proposal also specifically addresses the continued detention of prominent climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was arrested under the National Security Act (NSA) in September after organizing a hunger strike to pressure the government for talks.

Negotiations between the LAB, the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), and the MHA resumed last month following a breakdown in September. The LAB hopes the current proposal will break the impasse and lead to a resolution that addresses the long-standing demands of the people of Ladakh.

The situation remains sensitive, with many in Ladakh feeling their voices have been ignored. The outcome of these negotiations will be crucial in determining the future political and social landscape of the region.

Read More