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In a "major breakthrough" concerning the future administrative and political framework in Ladakh, a sub-committee level talks involving representatives from Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), and Home Ministry "reached a historic consensus" , former Ladakh MP Thupstan Chhewang said on Friday.
He said a customised political system will be implemented, giving elected bodies powers similar to those of a Chief Minister and ministers. Thupstan Chhewang told ANI that the meeting was "highly anticipated" and discussions covered Ladakh's long-standing issues. "For five to six years, dialogue with the Home Ministry had brought partial consensus and implementation at the ground level, but the key demands -- statehood and UT with legislature, along with constitutional safeguards -- had remained unresolved," he said. "Today, however, a historic consensus was reached. It was agreed that due to financial non-viability, Ladakh cannot at present be granted statehood or UT with legislature. Yet, a customised political system will be implemented, giving elected bodies powers similar to those of a Chief Minister and ministers, including law-making authority," he added. BJP leader Tashi Gyalson said the committee's dialogue was very positive and constructive. "I consider this a major breakthrough, as many long-pending issues were finally addressed. Key discussions centred on Ladakh's financial viability and how it can sustain itself in the future, as well as the need for Ladakh-specific customised safeguards given its unique context and dynamics," he told ANI. "Deliberations focused on how best to secure Ladakh while aligning with the national perspective. From the very beginning, the government's intention towards Ladakh has been positive," he added. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had visited Ladakh earlier this month and inaugurated the exposition of the sacred relics of Lord Buddha in Leh. He said that the return of Lord Buddha's relics to Ladakh, after 75 years and on the auspicious day of Buddha Purnima, marks a historic and truly golden occasion He said that Ladakh's heritage demonstrates that, amidst conflict and turmoil, the path of peace and compassion alone can offer the ultimate solution. (ANI)
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