Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Polity & Governance
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The central government has proposed the introduction of a new constitutional provision, Article 371(K), to establish special constitutional safeguards for Ladakh.
The central government has proposed the creation of a special constitutional provision, Article 371(K), for Ladakh.
Proposal – It resulted from discussions between the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and representatives of the following groups:
Leh Apex Body (LAB)
Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA)
Aim – To provide constitutional safeguards, establish an elected Union Territory-level governing body, and enhance local autonomy.
The proposed governing body is anticipated to possess the following characteristics:
It will be directly elected by the residents of the Union Territory.
The body will operate at the Union Territory level.
It will be granted legislative authority over specified subjects.
The primary intention is to facilitate increased local participation in governance.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has outlined the following legislative powers:
Land – Legislative authority and safeguards against unauthorized changes in ownership or use.
Culture and Language – Protection of Ladakhi identity and preservation of local languages and traditions.
Forest and Environment – Authority over forest matters and enforcement of environmental protection.
Natural Resources – Local control and legislative authority over resources.
Other Union Territory Subjects – Matters reserved under Article 240.
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