Ladakh bans protests ahead of polls: Wangchuk warns of fresh agitation against elections
The Ladakh administration has banned political protests and demonstrations during the upcoming local body elections. Activist Sonam Wangchuk and local leaders are calling for central government intervention, citing concerns over the election timing and the lack of democratic safeguards.
Why it matters
The restriction on protests in a sensitive region like Ladakh underscores ongoing tensions regarding regional autonomy and the democratic process in India.
NEW DELHI: The Ladakh administration has prohibited political protests, dharnas, rallies and other forms of collective demonstrations in Leh and Kargil during the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for the upcoming local body elections, even as climate activist Sonam Wangchuk appealed to the Centre to intervene, warning of fresh agitation over the poll schedule.In a post on X on Wednesday, Wangchuk shared a video featuring leaders from Leh and Kargil, including the local MP, appealing to President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union home minister Amit Shah and leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi to intervene. The appeal comes amid growing opposition to the proposed elections and demands for political safeguards in the Union Territory.Wangchuk said talks on the restoration of democracy had broken down and alleged that the administration was moving ahead with the elections despite concerns raised by people across Ladakh.
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