Leh: Ending months of uncertainty, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has decided to resume its stalled dialogue with representatives of Ladakh.
The crucial meeting is expected to take place on October 6 in New Delhi, sources confirmed.
Two developments are understood to have paved the way for the Centre to move forward with the talks—the return of veteran Ladakhi leader Thupstan Chhewang to the Apex Body and the depoliticisation of the platform after recent interventions. Officials believe these factors have created a more conducive atmosphere for dialogue at this sensitive stage.
Earlier this month, the Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA), a powerful religious and social organisation, passed a resolution urging political parties to stay away from the proposed talks in view of the forthcoming Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) elections.
The LBA also made a strong appeal to Chhewang to return to the Apex Body and assume leadership at what it described as a “critical juncture” for Ladakh’s aspirations.
Thupstan Chhewang, a former Member of Parliament from Ladakh, is regarded as one of the region’s most respected voices.
He commands credibility across different sections of Ladakhi society and has long been seen as a leader who is heard with seriousness in the corridors of power in New Delhi.
The resumption of talks is seen as a significant step in addressing Ladakh’s long-standing concerns following its transition to Union Territory status in 2019. With Chhewang back at the helm, stakeholders in Ladakh hope the dialogue with the Centre will now gain momentum and produce tangible results.
