Srinagar: Tensions are rising in Ladakh’s political landscape as internal divisions within the Leh Apex Body (LAB) surface just days before key dialogue meetings scheduled with India’s Ministry of Home Affairs. The growing rift has triggered public frustration, with residents warning that the infighting could weaken the region’s ongoing political movement.
According to Beyond Time News, the controversy comes at a sensitive time when Ladakh’s leadership is preparing for crucial discussions with New Delhi over long-standing constitutional and governance demands.
Internal Split Emerges Within Leh Apex Body
The Leh Apex Body, one of the two main representative groups engaged in dialogue with the central government, is reportedly facing a serious internal dispute.
The situation escalated after founding chairman Thupstan Chhewang publicly raised concerns about the organisation’s functioning and claimed that dialogue with the Indian government had reached a deadlock.
Chhewang also alleged that he was removed from his position without broad consultation, triggering sharp reactions from within the leadership.
Counter-Accusations Intensify Leadership Dispute
Co-chairman Chering Dorjay Lakruk strongly rejected Chhewang’s claims, accusing him of aligning with the government’s stance and weakening the region’s core political demands.
He further argued that such statements risk undermining the unified position that Ladakh leaders have maintained in negotiations with New Delhi.
The exchange of accusations has exposed growing divisions within the leadership structure of the LAB at a crucial political moment.
Dispute Over Power Sector Restructuring Adds Fuel
The internal conflict deepened after disagreements emerged over recent restructuring in Ladakh’s power sector, which critics describe as a step toward privatisation.
The issue has already sparked opposition from both the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance, two key groups representing different regions of Ladakh.
Chhewang reportedly objected to the inclusion of this issue in the broader political agenda, further widening the divide within the leadership.
Public Anger Over Political Infighting
Residents across Ladakh have expressed growing frustration over the internal conflict, saying it risks weakening the region’s collective bargaining position.
Many locals argue that unity is essential at a time when discussions with the central government are expected to address major demands, including constitutional safeguards and statehood.
One resident said public support would remain with leaders who consistently defend the region’s long-standing demands, adding that any compromise on core issues would face accountability from the people.
Key Demands Still Central to Movement
The political movement in Ladakh has largely centered on demands for:
- Inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution
- Full statehood for Ladakh
- Safeguards for land, jobs, and cultural identity
These demands have remained central since 2021 and continue to shape negotiations between local groups and New Delhi.
Uncertainty Over Upcoming Dialogue
Adding to the uncertainty, questions remain over the scheduled subcommittee talks with the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Local leaders say they have not yet received a formal invitation for the meeting reportedly announced by Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, raising doubts about the timing and readiness of the discussions.
Conclusion
The internal crisis within the Leh Apex Body has cast a shadow over Ladakh’s upcoming talks with the central government. With leadership divisions becoming increasingly public, concerns are growing that a lack of unity could weaken the region’s negotiating position.
According to Beyond Time News, residents are now closely watching how leaders manage internal disagreements ahead of a critical phase in Ladakh’s political future.
