Habeel Sagar
Kargil: Newly appointed Co-Chairman of the Kargil Democratic Alliance, Sajjad Kargili, has stressed the need for unity among Ladakh’s leadership ahead of the upcoming Sub-Committee meeting scheduled for May 22, while downplaying recent differences within the leadership of the Apex Body Leh.
Speaking exclusively to The Earth News after assuming the role, Kargili thanked the leadership and members of Jamiat Ulema Isna Asharia Kargil for reposing trust in him and giving him the opportunity to represent the organisation on the KDA platform. He also expressed gratitude to senior leaders and members of various religious, political and social organisations associated with the alliance, including Member of Parliament Mohmad Haneefa, Co-Chairman Asgar Karbalai and other stakeholders from across Kargil.
Kargili said he does not view the post of Co-Chairman as a position of power but rather as a “serious responsibility” and a test of leadership. He reiterated the alliance’s commitment towards Ladakh’s four-point agenda, particularly the demand for Sixth Schedule safeguards and statehood for Ladakh.
He said the struggle for constitutional safeguards and democracy in Ladakh would continue with sincerity and seriousness, adding that the alliance would try to effectively communicate the aspirations of the people to the Centre through dialogue and coordination with the government.
Referring to the upcoming talks, Kargili admitted that previous rounds of dialogue had not been as productive as expected, but said the alliance still hoped for meaningful progress in future discussions.
Responding to questions regarding recent political developments in Leh and statements made by Apex Body Chairman Pritam Singh, Kargili described the situation as a “difference of opinion” rather than hostility within the movement.
“When movements are led collectively, differences of opinion naturally emerge. These should not be viewed negatively,” he said, expressing confidence that the leadership would once again unite on a common platform to safeguard Ladakh’s future.
He also appealed to senior leader Thupstan Chhewang to continue supporting the movement for statehood and Sixth Schedule safeguards, recalling his “key role” in bringing different groups together during the early phase of the agitation in 2021.
Kargili further said that both the Apex Body Leh and KDA must work towards “maximum unity,” asserting that Ladakh’s strength lies in collective solidarity between Leh and Kargil. He added that people in Leh were also realising the importance of standing together at this crucial time, while maintaining that Kargil leadership remained united and committed to moving forward through consensus.
