||Black and White Digital News ||

||Tejveer Singh June 13, 2024||

Ladakh : Hanifa Jan, the newly elected independent Member of Parliament (MP) from the Ladakh Lok Sabha constituency, has emphatically reiterated his primary political goals: the attainment of statehood for Ladakh and the implementation of safeguards under the sixth schedule of the Constitution of India. These demands, he asserts, are essential for ensuring that the people of Ladakh receive their rightful entitlements.

In his recent address, Jan highlighted the historical and cultural uniqueness of Ladakh, emphasizing the need for specific constitutional protections to preserve its heritage and promote the socio-economic development of its people. The sixth schedule of the Constitution of India provides for the administration of tribal areas in the northeastern states through autonomous district and regional councils, which can make laws on various subjects and ensure the protection of tribal rights and land.

“The people of Ladakh have distinct needs and aspirations that cannot be adequately met under the current administrative setup,” Jan stated. “Statehood will give us the autonomy to govern ourselves more effectively and cater to our specific requirements. Additionally, safeguards under the sixth schedule will protect our cultural identity and ensure sustainable development.”

Since the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019, which led to the formation of the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, there has been a persistent demand from various sections of Ladakh’s populace for more substantial self-governance and protection of their cultural and land rights. Jan’s electoral victory as an independent candidate underscores the region’s desire for stronger representation and more localized control over its affairs.

Jan has called upon the central government to engage in a meaningful dialogue with Ladakhi leaders and stakeholders to address these demands. “The central government must recognize the legitimate aspirations of the people of Ladakh. It is crucial to initiate discussions and take concrete steps towards granting statehood and incorporating sixth schedule protections,” he urged.

The MP-elect has vowed to use his position in Parliament to advocate vigorously for these changes, aiming to unite various political and social groups in Ladakh under this common cause. As Ladakh navigates its future, the demand for statehood and constitutional safeguards is set to be a pivotal issue in its political landscape.