The Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) and the Leh Apex Body (LAB) -- umbrella groups of religious, political, social, trade and student organisations from Kargil and Leh districts -- have received an invitation for sub-committee level talks with the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi on May 22.
The two groups have been spearheading the agitation for Sixth Schedule status and statehood for the Union Territory of Ladakh.
Leaders of both forums said they are open to adopting a flexible approach if the Centre presents a fresh proposal beyond the existing territorial or council-based framework.
KDA co-chairman Ali Karbalai said the KDA received an invitation from MHA for subcommittee-level talks in New Delhi. The LAB has also received an invitation.
The last round of talks between Ladakh leaders and the Centre, led by the Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, was held on February 4.
During the meeting, the Centre objected to the demands for statehood and Sixth Schedule status, citing concerns over financial viability. It instead proposed the creation of a Territorial Council for Ladakh, with the Chief Executive Councillor of the Hill Council functioning as the Chief Minister of the Union Territory. However, the proposal was rejected by the Ladakh leaders.
Karbalai said there won’t be any compromise from Ladakh leaders on the core demands of statehood and the 6th Schedule for Ladakh.
“We have unanimously rejected any council-based proposal – whether territorial, regional, or by any other name. This position has been clearly communicated to the centre,” he said.
“We will go into the talks with a flexible approach and hope the centre comes up with some positive offers,” LAB leader Gelek Phunchok said.
The Ladakh MP Haji Haneefa Jan and noted climate activist Sonam Wangchuk are expected to be part of a delegation of Ladakh leaders for talks with MHA officials.