Leh District Left Without Elected Local Representatives as Hill Council Term Ends
The five-year term of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Leh, ended on October 31, leaving the district without elected local representatives, except for the MP. Fresh elections are delayed due to ongoing talks between civil society groups (LAB and KDA) and the Union Home Ministry regarding constitutional safeguards under Article 371 or the Sixth Schedule. Additionally, the creation of new districts necessitates redrawing boundaries, further complicating the election timeline. The absence of a council impacts local governance, as each councillor manages a development fund of ₹1.5 crore for essential services like connectivity and education.
Key Points
- The LAHDC, Leh, consists of 30 members, with 26 elected and 4 nominated by the Lieutenant-Governor.
- Civil society groups are demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh.
- The delay is also attributed to the need for implementing a one-third reservation for women in the council.
- Article 371 is being considered by the Ministry as a potential framework for safeguards.
Exam Facts
- Relevant Article: Article 371
- Council Name: LAHDC, Leh
- Term end date: October 31
- Councillor development fund: ₹1.5 crore
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