In a significant political move within the Union Territory of Ladakh, the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) are set to convene a joint sitting after Eid to address a range of issues, including the possibility of fielding a joint candidate for the Ladakh Lok Sabha seat.
Both the LAB and KDA, leading the agitation for Statehood and Sixth Schedule status, will deliberate on key matters following the Eid festival this week, as announced by LAB co-chairman Chering Dorjay Lakruk.
“The joint meeting of the LAB and KDA will be convened after Eid festival this week. The venue is yet to be finalized, with possibilities including Leh, Kargil, or a virtual platform,” Lakruk disclosed.
Regarding the prospect of presenting a consensus candidate for the Ladakh Lok Sabha seat, Lakruk confirmed that it would be a subject of discussion during the joint session. Although challenging, the idea of a joint candidate from LAB and KDA remains on the agenda.
The absence of LAB chairman and former MP Thupstan Chhewang from recent agitations was noted, with Lakruk mentioning a lack of contact due to Chhewang’s inaccessible mobile phone, citing his purported medical treatment.
Following the cancellation of the ‘Pashmina March (Border March)’ due to imposed prohibitory orders, the LAB scaled down its agitation but affirmed continued protest activities, with significant demonstrations planned every Sunday, accompanied by ongoing dharnas. Meanwhile, both the BJP and Congress have yet to unveil their candidates for the lone Lok Sabha seat in Ladakh.
The BJP, victorious in the 2014 and 2019 elections, is contemplating several names for the upcoming polls, including Jamyang Tsering Namgyal and others. On the Congress front, UT chief Nawang Rigzin Jora, a LAB participant, is a leading contender for the party’s nomination, although further considerations are underway within the party leadership.
Political analysts anticipate a noteworthy development should the LAB and KDA unite behind a joint candidate for the Ladakh Lok Sabha seat, highlighting evolving political dynamics within the region.
The BJP currently controls the Leh Hill Development Council for a second consecutive term, while a joint NC-Congress administration governs the Kargil Hill Development Council following last year’s elections.
