Leh: The Leh Apex Body (LAB), a coalition representing political, social, and religious groups in Ladakh, has withdrawn from talks with the Centre after one of its members was allegedly branded “anti-national” during discussions. The development marks a major setback in ongoing negotiations over the region’s political and constitutional demands.
According to LAB leaders, the remark was made by a government representative in the midst of deliberations, sparking outrage among members who saw it as an insult to the people of Ladakh. They said that branding voices of local concern as “anti-national” was unacceptable and demanded a public apology before any further dialogue could continue.
The Leh Apex Body has been pressing for full statehood for Ladakh and constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule to protect the region’s tribal identity, land, culture, and resources. The talks with the Centre were expected to address these long-pending demands, but the latest controversy has deepened mistrust between both sides.
In a joint statement, LAB leaders reiterated their commitment to peaceful and democratic protest but asserted that dignity and respect were non-negotiable. They emphasized that Ladakhis have consistently stood with the nation and that dismissing their demands as “anti-national” undermines the very spirit of dialogue.
The Centre had engaged in multiple rounds of discussions with Ladakh representatives since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which bifurcated the former state of Jammu and Kashmir and created the Union Territory of Ladakh. However, the impasse over constitutional guarantees and political representation has continued to fuel resentment in the region.
With the Leh Apex Body suspending talks, the path forward appears uncertain. The demand for an apology highlights not just a clash over words but a deeper struggle for recognition and respect in negotiations that will shape the future of Ladakh’s governance.
