LEH, Nov 11: The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Ladakh has prohibited political dharnas, protests, demonstrations, sit-ins, rallies and other forms of collective political activities within the municipal limits of Leh and Kargil until the completion of the ongoing municipal election process.
The order, issued on Tuesday, will remain in force throughout the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) period, which came into effect on October 23, 2026, following the notification for elections to the Municipal Committees of Leh and Kargil.
According to the order, the restrictions have been imposed to ensure a peaceful atmosphere and facilitate free and fair elections without intimidation, fear or undue influence on voters.
The CEO observed that political demonstrations and similar activities during the election period could potentially disturb public order, intimidate voters and adversely affect the electoral environment.
Exercising powers under Section 282 of the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Act, 2000, read with the J&K Municipal Committee (Election) Rules, 2003, the CEO directed that no political party, candidate, worker, supporter or any other person shall organise or participate in such activities within the specified municipal limits if they are likely to affect the peaceful conduct of elections.
All political parties, candidates and their representatives have been instructed to strictly follow the Model Code of Conduct and refrain from activities that could intimidate, coerce or unduly influence voters.
The District Election Officers (Deputy Commissioners) of Leh and Kargil, along with the respective Senior Superintendents of Police and other concerned authorities, have been directed to ensure strict implementation of the order.
The CEO warned that violations would invite appropriate legal action under relevant provisions of the law and the Model Code of Conduct.
The district administrations have also been instructed to publicise the order widely through print and electronic media and display copies at public places, including Municipal Committee offices and Deputy Commissioners' offices.
