Kargil: Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) leader Sajjad Kargili has strongly criticised the Union Territory (UT) status of Ladakh, stating that the decision has failed to address the political, democratic and developmental aspirations of the people of the region.
Kargil, Jan 07: Endorsing the recent remarks made by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Sajjad Kargili said that the UT model, which was projected as a solution to Ladakh’s long-pending issues, has instead deepened public alienation and created a serious democratic deficit in the region.
In a statement shared on social media, the KDA leader expressed concern over what he termed as increasing centralised decision-making in Ladakh, claiming that the voices of local people are being sidelined. He alleged that citizens demanding democratic rights and empowerment are facing arrests, which has further aggravated the sense of disenchantment among the masses.
“The idea of Union Territory was projected as a solution, but in Ladakh it has failed to address the aspirations of the people. People are being jailed for demanding democracy and empowerment. The UT idea has brought alienation, centralised decision-making and a democratic deficit,” Sajjad Kargili stated.
He emphasised that Ladakhis were promised greater autonomy, representation and development after the formation of the UT in 2019. However, he claimed that instead of strengthening grassroots democracy, decision-making has become more centralised, leaving the local population with limited participation in governance.
Calling for unity among the people of the region, the KDA leader stressed that peaceful and democratic struggle is the only viable path forward to safeguard Ladakh’s identity, rights and future.
“Maximum unity and constant struggle in a peaceful and democratic way is the only way forward for the people of our region,” he added.
The remarks come at a time when political groups, civil society organisations and social activists in Ladakh have been intensifying their demand for constitutional safeguards, democratic representation and restoration of political rights. The KDA has been at the forefront of several peaceful protests and negotiations with the Centre, seeking measures to protect Ladakh’s land, jobs, culture and political autonomy.
Sajjad Kargili’s statement is expected to further fuel the ongoing discourse on Ladakh’s political future and add momentum to the region-wide calls for a more inclusive and democratic governance framework.
