Demand for sixth schedule in Ladakh

Why in News?

The Union government has revoked the detention of activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA), nearly 6 months after his arrest amid the Ladakh movement seeking statehood and protections under the Sixth Schedule.

• Sixth Schedule – Articles 244(2) and 275(1) provides autonomous governance to tribal areas through Autonomous District Councils (ADCs).
• Objectives – Protect tribal identity, land, and customs and ensure self-governance.
• Applicable areas - Applicable Only in Northeast India – Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram.
• Key Features of Sixth Schedule –

Sixth Schedule demand in Ladakh

• Demographic Argument – 97% population are Scheduled Tribes.
• Post-2019 Concerns – After abrogation of Article 370, fear of Land alienation, Job competition, Cultural dilution.
• Environmental Protection – Fragile Himalayan-glacial ecosystem needs local control.
• Demand for Greater Autonomy – Existing councils lack legislative & judicial powers.

Existing Governance in Ladakh

• Union Territory without legislature.
• Two councils - Leh Autonomous Hill Development Council and Kargil Autonomous Hill Development Council, statutory bodies, not constitutional (unlike ADCs).

Government’s Current Approach

• Instead of Sixth Schedule, Centre proposes:
• Reservation & Domicile –Up to 85% reservation and 15-year domicile rule.
• Article 371-Type - Safeguards like Article 371A and Article 371G
• Strengthening Hill Councils –More administrative & financial powers.
• Proposal for new councils in new districts.
• Cultural Protection – Recognition of local languages (Bhoti, Purgi etc.)

Quick Facts

• Disputed Areas in Ladakh
  • Indo - China Border – Aksai Chin, the Pangong Tso, Galwan Valley, Depsang Plains, Demchok, and the Gogra-Hot Springs region.
  • India - Pakistan Border – Shaksgam Valley, Siachen Glacier

References

1. The Indian Express | Sixth Schedule in Ladakh
2. Ministry of External Affairs| Sixth Schedule