Ministries of Home, Tribal Affairs, and Law Previously Supported Sixth Schedule Status for Ladakh
Internal government documents reveal that in 2019, the Ministries of Home, Tribal Affairs, and Law, along with the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), had concurred on recommending Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh. The NCST had taken suo motu cognizance of the demand, noting that Ladakh's population is over 95% tribal. Inclusion in the Sixth Schedule would provide constitutional safeguards for land, agrarian rights, and socio-economic development through Autonomous Hill Development Councils. However, by 2022, the Centre shifted its stance, claiming that the existing UT administration was already ensuring the necessary development and protection.
Key Points
- The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) recommended Ladakh's inclusion in the Sixth Schedule in September 2019.
- Three Union Ministries (Home, Tribal Affairs, and Law) initially expressed 'no objection' to the tribal area status.
- The Sixth Schedule provides for Autonomous District Councils with legislative, judicial, and administrative powers.
- The government now argues that the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Act, 1997, provides sufficient safeguards.
Exam Facts
- Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution (Articles 244(2) and 275(1)).
- National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) is a constitutional body under Article 338A.
- Ladakh's tribal population is estimated to be over 95%.
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