LEH: Unfazed by the announcement of creation of five new districts in the union territory, the socio-political groups of Ladakh, led by Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance are all set to commence their ‘Delhi Chalo Yatra’ from NDS Park here, on September 1, marking the start of a significant, month-long foot march to the national capital to press for their demands.
The Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance have been fighting for their four major demands including granting of statehood and extension of sixth schedule of the Constitution.
While the Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced earlier this week the creation of five new districts in Ladakh- Zanskar, Drass, Sham, Nubra, and Changthang- raising their number to seven in a decision welcomed by local people as fulfilment of their long-pending demand, these groups have stood by their decision to undertake foot march from Leh to Delhi beginning September 1, led by leaders from Leh, while KDA representatives all set to join the peaceful march in Delhi.
Organizers of the ‘Delhi Chalo Yatra’ have announced that the participants will walk through various towns and villages, spreading their message and inviting local citizens to join the movement. Each day, the marchers will cover a distance of 25 kilometers, with the aim to maintain a steady and disciplined pace throughout the journey.
The Yatra will begin with an inaugural ceremony at NDS Park, where prominent leaders and activists will address the crowd. The first day will see the participants marching towards key locations, engaging with local communities along the way, and highlighting the core issues that prompted this mass mobilization.
According to sources, the Padayatra has been organized to raise awareness and push for action on pressing matters, including social justice, economic reforms, and environmental sustainability. The organizers have emphasized that the march is a peaceful initiative aimed at drawing attention to these critical issues and ensuring that the voices of the people are heard in the corridors of power.
Safety and logistical arrangements for the marchers are in place, with provisions for medical assistance, food, and rest areas throughout the route. Local authorities have been cooperating to ensure the smooth conduct of the event, with necessary permissions and traffic management plans already in place.
The ‘Delhi Chalo Yatra’ is expected to gather momentum in the coming days, with thousands more anticipated to join as the march progresses towards its final destination in the capital. The participants, united by a common cause, hope to make their voices resonate in Delhi, urging policymakers to heed their demands and work towards a more inclusive and equitable future.
As the date draws closer, excitement and anticipation are building among participants and supporters alike, who are determined to make this Padayatra a memorable and impactful movement for change.
