September 29, 2025

Quick Overview

Ladakh has seen renewed protests demanding statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The region’s predominantly tribal population feels disenfranchised after losing legislative representation in 2019 when it was made a Union Territory. The Sixth Schedule, currently applicable in parts of Northeast India, empowers local councils with legislative, judicial, and financial authority to safeguard tribal identity, culture, and resources. Ladakh’s concerns span land protection, environmental preservation, unemployment, and cultural autonomy. However, constitutional limits, security concerns, and administrative challenges complicate granting such status. A balanced approach may lie in strengthening the Ladakh Hill Councils with more autonomy while maintaining central oversight on strategic issues.

Ladakh’s Demand for Sixth Schedule Status: A Constitutional and Cultural Struggle

Introduction

Ladakh, restructured as a Union Territory in 2019, is witnessing protests as tribal communities seek constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule. The demand reflects a deeper struggle for representation, land protection, ecological security, and cultural preservation.

What is the Sixth Schedule?

• Constitutional Basis: Articles 244(2) and 275(1), inspired by the Bardoloi Committee’s recommendations.

• Purpose: Protect tribal governance, culture, and resources within the Indian Union.

• Provisions:

  • Creation of Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) and Autonomous Regional Councils (ARCs).

  • Legislative Powers: Laws on land, forests, marriage, social customs, and mining.

  • Judicial Powers: Tribal courts for local disputes (excluding serious crimes).

  • Executive Powers: Control over schools, markets, health, and infrastructure.

  • Financial Powers: Authority to levy taxes and collect revenue.

• Current Status: 10 ADCs operate in Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Tripura.

Why Ladakh Demands Sixth Schedule Status

1. Loss of Representation: From having four MLAs and stronger local councils earlier, Ladakh now relies on bureaucratic governance.

2. Tribal Identity & Land Concerns: With 97% tribal population, fears over cultural erosion and outsider dominance are rising.

3. Limited Power of Hill Councils: Leh and Kargil Hill Councils lack Sixth Schedule autonomy.

4. Environmental Fragility: Tourism and mega-projects threaten Ladakh’s delicate ecosystem.

5. Economic Pressures: Unemployment (~26.5%) and lack of local job creation intensify discontent.

Challenges in Granting Sixth Schedule to Ladakh

• Constitutional Restrictions: Originally meant only for Northeastern states.

• Security Sensitivities: Border location demands strong central oversight.

• Administrative Weakness: Risk of financial dependency and lack of governance experience.

• Development vs. Autonomy Balance: Need to integrate growth with ecological and cultural protection.

• Precedent Risk: Other tribal regions may demand similar safeguards.

Government’s Alternative Measures

• Employment: 85% of government jobs reserved for locals.

• Representation: One-third seats reserved for women in Hill Councils.

• Cultural Safeguards: Promotion of local languages and traditions.

Possible Middle Path for Ladakh

• Enhanced Legislative Authority: Empower Hill Councils on ecology, tourism, and renewable energy.

• Central Oversight in Security: Retain Union control over defense and borders.

• Cultural Heritage Zones: Protect property rights for locals.

• Local Resource Control: Exclusive rights for councils over natural resources.

• Youth Employment Initiatives: Innovation hubs for tourism, energy, and handicrafts.

Conclusion

Ladakh’s demand highlights the need to reconcile autonomy with national security. A pragmatic solution lies in strengthening local councils with more powers while ensuring strategic control remains with the Union government. This balance could protect Ladakh’s fragile ecology, safeguard tribal identity, and restore trust among its people.

CLAT/Exam Relevance Summary

• Understanding the Sixth Schedule and its scope.

• Case study on tribal autonomy and federalism.

• Link with issues of identity, land protection, and cultural preservation.

• Example of conflict between local autonomy and national security.

• Relevant for GS-2 (Constitution, Governance, Federalism) and essay topics on tribal issues.