Leh/New Delhi, Aug 21: A delegation from Shakar Chiktan and Shargole regions called on Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai on Wednesday to advocate for the establishment of a new district in Ladakh, renewing long-standing demands for closer administrative oversight and improved local governance. The meeting, coordinated by Member of Parliament Haji Haneefa Jan, underscores a renewed drive by regional leaders to secure recognition for the remote areas.
The delegation, representing the Coordination Committee for the New District Shakar Chiktan and Shargole, included Shakar Chiktan Chairman Kacho Shameem, Executive Member Haji Ghulam Hussain, and from Shargole, former LAHDC Kargil Councillor Haji Mohd Ali and former Tingdou Sarpanch Ahmad Ali.
During the meeting, the representatives submitted a memorandum proposing the merger of Shakar Chiktan sub-division with the Shargole block to form a separate district. The document outlined the expected administrative and developmental advantages, stressing that a distinct district would bring governance closer to residents, streamline public service delivery, and facilitate focused development initiatives.
“Being part of a larger administrative unit often slows down development,” a committee member observed. “A new district would enable faster decision-making and ensure that resources reach our villages without unnecessary delays.”
Local leaders have long raised concerns with the Ladakh UT Administration over challenges posed by rugged terrain, limited connectivity, and the distance of administrative offices from the villages. Past petitions, memorandums, and public demonstrations have drawn attention to governance delays and uneven development in these remote pockets.
The delegation emphasized that the formation of a new district would strengthen governance while preserving the distinct cultural and social identity of these communities. “We are not seeking privileges; we want effective governance and development for our people,” Haji Ghulam Hussain said, urging prompt action by the central government.
MP Haji Haneefa Jan assured the delegation of his full support, committing to raise the issue across appropriate platforms. “The people of Shakar Chiktan and Shargole have long awaited a resolution. Their aspirations deserve serious consideration, and I will ensure their voices are heard in every forum,” he stated.
The discussion comes amid ongoing deliberations on administrative reforms in Ladakh following its transition to a Union Territory in 2019. With the meeting concluded successfully, representatives expressed optimism that sustained engagement with government authorities could pave the way for the creation of a new district, bringing governance closer to residents and accelerating socio-economic development in the region.
