LEH/JAMMU, Sept 22: Ladakh Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra said a new framework is being prepared under Article 371 of the Constitution to provide constitutional safeguards tailored to the Union Territory’s specific needs.
Speaking at a consultative meeting with civil society representatives in Leh, Kundra said the proposed model would take into account the aspirations and requirements of the people of Ladakh. He said the draft framework is expected to be discussed at the next meeting between Ladakh representatives and the Ministry of Home Affairs, proposed for the first week of October.
The Centre has proposed inserting a new Chapter K under Article 371 to provide special constitutional safeguards for Ladakh.
The meeting, convened by Kundra, discussed several key administrative, developmental and political issues, including constitutional safeguards, land rights, employment, culture, environment, education, natural resources and drug abuse.
Kundra said there was broad agreement on the need for constitutional protection for Ladakh, particularly in areas related to land, employment, culture, the environment and natural resources.
Referring to ongoing discussions between the Centre and Ladakh representatives, the Chief Secretary said direct elections to the proposed Union Territory-level body were among the suggestions emerging from the talks.
He said further steps, including consideration of the proposed constitutional amendment by Parliament, would be taken after consensus is reached on the framework. A separate legislation would subsequently be required to define the powers, functions and institutional structure of the proposed body.
Kundra also highlighted recent administrative initiatives, including strengthening district-level administration, posting officers in districts and upgrading hospitals to district hospitals. He also referred to progress towards Panchayat elections in the Union Territory.
According to the Chief Secretary, Ladakh has recorded more than four lakh tourist arrivals so far this year, compared with around 3.35 lakh visitors during the entire previous year.
The meeting also included presentations on various developmental and social issues. Ladakh DGP Anand Jain presented an overview of drug-related concerns and sought the cooperation of civil society organisations in raising awareness and addressing the issue.
