Thu Mar 12 15:28:15 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Ladakh Groups Call for Shutdown Amid Stalled Talks with Centre Over Statehood and Sixth Schedule Inclusion

The Story:

The Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), representing socio-political and religious groups in Ladakh, has announced a shutdown and protest march across Ladakh on March 16, citing stalled talks with the central government regarding their demands for statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. The KDA, along with the Apex Body Leh (ABL), has been engaging with a high-powered committee (HPC) under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for the past five years, but progress remains elusive. Asgar Ali Karbalai, co-chairman of the KDA, expressed frustration with the Centre’s perceived “delay tactics” and warned of escalating protests if their demands continue to be ignored.

Key Points:

  • The Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) has called for a shutdown and protest march across Ladakh on March 16.
  • The KDA and Apex Body Leh (ABL) have been in talks with the Centre’s high-powered committee (HPC) for five years.
  • Key demands include statehood for Ladakh and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
  • Asgar Ali Karbalai, KDA co-chairman, accused the Centre of using “delay tactics” and attempting to divide the people of Ladakh.
  • The MHA allegedly promised another meeting within 15 days after a February 4 meeting, but no communication has been received.
  • The protest march will begin at Lal Chowk in Kargil, with demonstrations also planned in Leh.

Key Takeaways:

  • Frustration is growing in Ladakh over the lack of progress in negotiations with the central government regarding statehood and constitutional protections.
  • The KDA’s call for a shutdown signals a potential escalation of protests if the Centre does not address their demands.
  • The allegation that the Centre is attempting to divide the Ladakhi leadership highlights a breakdown in trust and communication.
  • The demand for inclusion under the Sixth Schedule reflects a desire for greater autonomy and self-governance for the region’s tribal areas.
  • The events underscore the complex socio-political dynamics in Ladakh following its bifurcation from Jammu and Kashmir.

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